Jim Herman reserved his spot at the US Masters in Augusta this week after holding off Henrik Stenson to secure a breakthrough PGA victory.
The 38-year-old carded four-under-par 68 after holding the overnight lead with compatriot Jamie Lovemark, but it was the challenge of the persistent Swede that applied the most pressure.
“It’s a whirlwind. This is crazy,” Herman told the PGA Tour's official website. “I’ve dreamt of this for a long time and now it’s here. I’m going to enjoy it.
“We’ll get our daughter out of school and they’ll be up at Augusta next week.”
Herman looked destined for a play-off berth with Stenson, with the pair tied on 14-under in the final round.
But a birdie on the par three 16th, with an excellent chip in helped him finish on 15-under and one clear of the field:
What a moment for Jim Herman.
A chip-in on the 70th hole en route to his first career PGA TOUR win.#ShotOfTheDay https://t.co/p7DvOc0AyG
— PGA TOUR (@PGATOUR) April 3, 2016
Dustin Johnson finished a shot further back on 13-under, while Jordan Spieth finished tied-13th with fellow green jacket holders Charl Schwartzel and Phil Mickelson.
