Golf came calling for Scott Pinckney at an early age

Arizona resident never doubted career on the links

Scott Pinckney takes a swing on the 18th hole of the Innisbrook Resort and Golf Club in a practice round on Tuesday. Pinckney is competing in the 2016 Valspar Championship later this week. Hannah Carver/Toronto Observer

PALM HARBOR, Fla. – Scott Pinckney refused to be anything other than a golfer.

The Utah native is in his second year of the PGA Tour and will be competing in the upcoming Valspar Championship this week.

Pinckney was raised in an athletic household—his father was both a professional volleyball player and a skilled golfer. This led to an early discovery of his passion for golf when he was an eight-year-old out for his first round.

“I fell in love with the game on that first day,” said the professional golfer. “It was just so much fun and I was a perfectionist when I was younger, I wanted to be perfect. It fit me, it fit my personality because we’re all trying to pursue perfect out here.”

The pursuit of perfection formed many friendships along his career. A stand out acquaintance started when he was just nine-years-old, with fellow golf fanatic and four-time major champion, Rory McIlroy.

“He’s been there when I need to call and ask him some questions,” the American said. “He’s been more of a bigger inspiration.”

The 26-year-old remains completely calm despite playing against some huge names and inspirations within the golf community.

“It’s different being out here because there would be a lot of guys who would be my hero and now I’m playing against them,” Pinckney said. “I’m looking forward to have the opportunity to show them what kind of game I have.”

In preparation for the 2016 Valspar Championship, Innisbrook Resort and Golf Club now features Celebration Bermuda grass on fairways and TifEagle Bermuda on greens. It is considered among the toughest par 71’s on the PGA Tour, however it does not phase Pinckney’s game.

“This course fits me pretty well, I love what they’ve done to the greens compared to last year,” the former European Tour member said. “The greens are a little bit more receptive but it’s still pretty tough to make putts.”

The Arizona State University graduate is currently ranked 242nd on the Official World Golf Ranking and has made one top 25 finish in 11 appearances. The confidence in his game continues to improve as he consistently is working hard towards his goal.

Pinckney has a lot of self-assurance going into the Valspar Championship and hopes to break another top 25 finish.

“Hopefully the hard work pays off.”

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Posted: Mar 8 2016 9:54 pm
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