July 31, 2008

COLUMBIA, S.C. - Three University of South Carolina golfers have already punched their tickets for the U.S. Amateur Championship, which tees off at Pinehurst Resort & Country Club on August 18. Seniors Baker Elmore and Mark Silvers III advanced last week, while junior Paul Woodbury collected his entry on July 29.

Silvers was the first Gamecock to gain entry this year as he won the qualifier at the Piedmont Driving Club in Atlanta, Ga., on July 23. Silvers shot 71 and 67 to finish at four-under to lead the field.

Elmore tied for third at the Keith Hills Country Club qualifier in Buies Creek, N.C. Playing on the Creek Course, he opened with a 67 and followed it with a 70 to finish at seven-under.

Woodbury finished in a three-way tie for first in the Pinewilde Country Club qualifier in Pinehurst, N.C. He opened play on the Magnolia Course with a 65 and shot 71 in the second round to finish at eight-under.

Players around the nation have opportunities to qualify through August 5.