Ben Kohles, who was co-leading the PGA TOUR Q-School presented by Korn Ferry, faced a significant setback after accidentally moving his ball during play. This mistake resulted in a one-stroke penalty that dramatically affected his standing in the tournament.
Penalty Costs Kohles the Lead
During a crucial moment at the Q-School, Kohles inadvertently caused his ball to move, which under the rules of golf incurs a one-stroke penalty. The incident shifted him from a shared first place position to tied ninth, following a double bogey on the hole. Such penalties are rare but can have a major impact in high-stakes qualifying events like this.
Impact on the PGA TOUR Q-School Race
The PGA TOUR Q-School is a critical pathway for players aiming to secure their status on the PGA Tour. Every stroke counts, and Kohles’ penalty highlights the fine margins that separate success from disappointment. The pressure at Q-School is immense, and even minor errors can have outsized consequences.
What This Means for Kohles
Ben Kohles, who has shown promise on the Korn Ferry Tour and other circuits, now faces an uphill battle to regain his position. Recovering from a penalty and a double bogey in such a competitive field will require composure and strong play in the remaining rounds.
Fans and followers of the PGA TOUR will be watching closely to see if Kohles can bounce back and secure his card for the upcoming season. The Q-School is known for its drama and unpredictability, and this incident adds another chapter to its storied history.