University of Minnesota Athletics
Photo by: AP
Van Rooyen Tames Carnoustie in Opening Two Rounds
7/20/2018 11:25:00 AM | Men's Golf
Former University of Minnesota golfer Erik Van Rooyen has vaulted towards the top of the leaderboard at this weekend's Open Championship. Van Rooyen, a 2013 graduate of the U, carded scores of 4-under-par 67 and even par 71 at Carnoustie Golf Links in Scotland and is in great shape heading into the weekend's final rounds.
Van Rooyen dazzled in the opening round, putting together a nearly flawless scorecard with five birdies and one bogey to finish the day tied for second place. His round of 71 on Friday helped him keep pace with the top of the scoreboard, all but ensuring a spot in the late pairings for Saturday's third round.
A native of South Africa, Van Rooyen was a three-time NCAA regional qualifier during his time with the Gophers, and thrice finished among the top-10 at the Big Ten Championships. He turned professional after his Gopher career concluded and has played overseas since, including 15 events on the European Tour this year.
The Open Championship continues through Sunday, with the Golf Channel and NBC televising live action from Carnoustie. Â
Van Rooyen dazzled in the opening round, putting together a nearly flawless scorecard with five birdies and one bogey to finish the day tied for second place. His round of 71 on Friday helped him keep pace with the top of the scoreboard, all but ensuring a spot in the late pairings for Saturday's third round.
A native of South Africa, Van Rooyen was a three-time NCAA regional qualifier during his time with the Gophers, and thrice finished among the top-10 at the Big Ten Championships. He turned professional after his Gopher career concluded and has played overseas since, including 15 events on the European Tour this year.
The Open Championship continues through Sunday, with the Golf Channel and NBC televising live action from Carnoustie. Â
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