SOUTHAMPTON, Bermuda – Adam Schenk secured an unexpected victory, culminating with a round of 71 strokes, par for the course, amidst strong winds on Sunday. This secured his victory at the Butterfield Bermuda Championship, marking his 243rd start on the PGA Tour.Schenk, who was two tournaments away from having to return to qualifying school, managed to overcome extremely challenging conditions, with a birdie and four crucial par saves in gusts that exceeded 30 mph.The last save was particularly difficult. His approach to the 18th hole, a par 4 at Port Royal, slightly overshot the green, while Schenk maintained a one-stroke lead. He chose to use the putter to roll the ball through about 6 feet of fringe due to the tight position, and the wind pushed it about 5 feet short of the hole.With a gentle touch, he managed to sink the winning putt, relieved to see the ball fall into the center of the cup, surpassing Chandler Phillip, who also recorded 71 strokes.
Schenk, who was twice a runner-up in 2023, the year he reached the Tour Championship for the first time, earns a two-year exemption with this victory, something crucial on the PGA Tour, where having full status is fundamental.Takumi Kanaya, from Japan, had the opportunity to catch up to Schenk, being one stroke away and playing with him in the final group. The wind was so strong that his approach soared and landed in a back bunker. Although he managed an excellent shot to 4 feet, his par putt, affected by the wind, did not go in.Phillips, for his part, placed 139th, and his second place, the best of his career on the PGA Tour, took him to 92nd place, securing his card.Schenk overcame a difficult moment when he missed six consecutive cuts this summer. He made adjustments to his game and decided to putt one-handed to improve his biggest weakness, and although he felt he was progressing, the results were not as expected.Now, with a victory on the PGA Tour, he secures his participation in at least one major event of $20 million next year, in addition to the PGA Championship and The Players Championship.The victory was not easy, especially with such a strong wind that the tournament brought forward the tee times to avoid the worst.Schenk holed putts from 6 and 8 feet on holes 12 and 14. On the 16th hole, a tricky par 3 at Port Royal, located by the ocean and with strong winds, he managed to save par after a shot on the hillside and a precise chip. Then, he missed a putt that he considered perfect, the wind deflected his 6-foot birdie attempt.Schenk had to fight for a last pair.I’ve kicked for victories on the PGA Tour many times in my barn. Seeing one go in is something I’ll never forget.
Adam Schenk
I knew I could win. It’s about executing every shot and managing every situation I’m in. I can’t believe it’s over. It feels like the longest day ever.
Adam Schenk
