United States amateur golf champion David Gossett will contest the New Zealand Open in Auckland starting on January 18.
Gossett, who shot a remarkable 13-under-par 59 during last month's US PGA Tour qualifying school, has been granted a sponsor's exemption to play in the Telstra Saturn-sponsored event at The Grange.
He missed his full playing card at the qualifying school, finishing equal 68th, but claimed his card on the second-tier tour.
"It's great news for the tournament to attract someone of Gossett's amateur pedigree and obvious potential," NZ Golf Association chief executive Phil Aickin said yesterday.
"Obviously anyone who can shoot 59 has some remarkable talents, and he will add tremendous interest to the tournament."
Gossett joins three other Americans - John Inman, Charles Raulerson and Robin Byrd - who are among the 86 players exempted for the Open.
- NZPA
Golf: US amateur golf champ set to play in NZ Open
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