AUGUSTA Oliver Goss has officially become the first Australian to win the Silver Cup as low amateur at the Masters.
The 20-year-old West Australian product was a lock on Friday afternoon as the only amateur to make the cut but officially finished his tournament with a three-over 75 to be 10-over for the week, finishing 49th.
He joined 2014 champion Bubba Watson and fellow Australian and outgoing champ Adam Scott in Butler Cabin before receiving his trophy.
Some of the games greatest names in golf, including Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods, have claimed low amateur at Augusta National.
“I can’t believe it, to be honest with you,” Goss said.
“To be the first Australian is really quite unbelievable.
What an amazing week, this is such a life-changing event and I will remember it for rest of my life.”
Goss, who plays college golf at the University of Tennessee, seemingly has a long professional career ahead of him, such is his power and precision.
But before any thoughts of turning pro, Goss will attempt to win the low amateur title later this year at the US Open at Pinehurst.
He admitted stepping up to the big stage was an eye-opener.
“I’m absolutely exhausted. You’ve got to play your best golf every single day, it just amazes me and I can definitely tell I’m going to get back home and hit the cardio a little harder,” he said.
“I really respect these guys for what they do. The second round I played really well and the other days I just played just a little average.
“But I managed to play fairly average the whole week and still make the cut so it makes me realise that I can get there, but I still have a lot to learn, though.”
Coach Ritchie Smith, who walked every hole of Goss’ Masters experience, was certainly impressed with his performance in his debut major championship.
“I’d say it was a really good and mature performance for someone who’s not old and very inexperienced,” Smith said.
“I was very pleased with the way he’s come through that.
“He’s a big-time performer. I think that’s what we’re working out – that he plays well in these big time events when he’s challenged.
Technically he needs some improvement, but his short game was outstanding.”
