Amateur Doug Ghim adds to Masters crystal collection

Doug Ghim already had secured the Silver Cup as the low amateur at the 82nd Masters Tournament, along with two pairs of crystal glasses for the two eagles he made at Augusta National in Thursday’s opening round.

On Saturday, the senior from the University of Texas added to his expanding trophy case with another pair of crystal glasses after his second eagle of the week at the par-5 13th hole. Ghim shot 74 and sits at 6-over par in a tie for 47th.

Ghim, the only amateur to make the cut, was even par on the front nine with birdies at No. 2 and No. 7. He bogeyed three consecutive holes to start the back nine, but came out of Amen Corner with another unforgettable moment after reaching the green in two and making a 29-foot putt.

“It was special,” said Ghim, 21, who plans to turn professional after playing in the U.S. Open. “I would say that No. 10 and No. 13 are my favorite holes on the golf course. I hit a great drive and hit a 5-iron in. I just told myself to give it a chance. The greens were a little bit slower today and I was a little bit more aggressive with it. And halfway it looked good, and it just continued to look good until it went down.”

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Ghim is the only player in the field this week with three eagles. Leader Patrick Reed had a pair on the back nine Saturday and Spain’s Jon Rahm has two. He became only the sixth player in Masters history to eagle the 18th hole Thursday.

Ghim will have to decide what to do with the mementos he’s bringing home from his first Masters appearance.

“I don’t know. I guess decorate my room,” Ghim said. “I’m just very excited and glad that I get to bring some hardware home.” 

He realizes he’s in select company as the low amateur at the Masters – the group includes Tiger Woods, Jack Nicklaus, Phil Mickelson, Sergio Garcia and another legend from the University of Texas who has a special place in Ghim’s heart.

“I was reminded yesterday that Mr. (Ben) Crenshaw has won the low (amateur) twice, and that means a lot to me," he said. "That’s pretty special, and I won’t forget it for the rest of my life.”

Ghim is soaking in the experience this week, with his father, Jeff, carrying his bag. But he’s also learning lessons that he hopes will help him reach his goals.

“I also understand that there’s a lot of work to do to be able to have the dream and contend for one of those jackets,” Ghim said. “But being here on the weekend amongst the best players in the world on one of the most special golf courses in the world is definitely a great motivator for years to come.”