Toby Bishop, a former resident of Dubai and representative of Wales, secured a three under par 68 to triumph in the Qualifying Round of the Florida Open at Hawkstone Country Club in the United States. He now advances to compete in the 78th Florida Open Championship, scheduled from 19th to 21st July 2024, at the Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club and Country Club of Ocala in Florida.
Toby completed the front nine with a score of 34, featuring four birdies and two bogeys, and returned with two additional birdies and one bogey for another 34 on the par 71, 6,449 yards course. Two qualifying spots were up for grabs from the Qualifying Round, with a total of 15 qualifying sites across the state. Toby recently moved from the Florida Gators to the Lipscomb Men’s Golf Team to participate in the collegiate amateur circuit.
Reflecting on his transfer, Toby expressed, “I am profoundly thankful for my experiences over the past two years at the University of Florida and the chance to be part of a National Championship-winning team. After extensive consultations with my family, coaches, and agent, I chose to transfer to foster my personal growth and achieve my lofty career goals.”
The Florida Open will feature 156 competitors on courses ranging from 6900 to 7400 yards. This 54-hole event is open to both professionals and amateurs, with a prize purse of $125,000 for the pros. The competition is divided between the Golden Ocala G&E Club and the Country Club of Ocala. The top 60 players and ties after 36 holes will proceed to the final round at the Golden Ocala G&E Club. The victor of the 2024 Florida Open will earn an exemption for the next five Florida Open Championships, while the top 10 and ties will secure spots in next year’s Florida Open. The top five and tied amateur finishers will be invited to the next year’s Florida Amateur Championship.
