Jamie Sadlowski, a long drive champ who hits it 445 yards, could be playing in the U.S. Open

Ball go far

This year’s U.S. Open is going to be tough. The organisers pride themselves on providing a stern challenge for the world’s best golfers, and Oakmont Country Club is as tough as they come. Last time it hosted the tournament, the winning total was five-over.

One of Oakmont’s defences is its sheer length. 7,254 yards sounds long enough, until you realise it’s a par-70. The 8th hole, a par-3, will likely be over 300 yards on at least one of the four days, while work has been done to make the par-5 12th even more difficult than ever.  

One man who won’t be concerned about the yardage, should he qualify, is former world long drive champion Jamie Sadlowski. 

Sadlowski, who won the RE/MAX World Long Drive Championship in 2008 and 2009, shot a five-under 65 to win the U.S. Open local qualifier at The Country Club at DC Ranch in Scottsdale on Monday, as he makes his first attempt to qualify for the U.S. Open. 

“It’s nice to be able to prove that I can do more than hit the ball far,” says Sadlowski, whose longest recorded drive is 445 yards. “People figure you hit it a long way you ought to be able to shoot low, but you still have to get it in the hole, and I did that pretty well.”

Here’s how Sadlowski generates so much power:

Sadlowski only hit driver three times during the round, predominantly relying on his 2-iron from the tee, which he hits around 300 yards. 

The Canadian proved that he’s not all power and no finesse with an impressive display on the greens.

“I think I had 11 putts in the first nine holes. I had confidence in the stroke and I put the ball on line.”

27-year-old Sadlowski will have to maintain top form if he is to qualify for the U.S. Open in June. 

“I have nothing to prove; I just think I have the game to compete in a U.S. Open. I would love that chance.”