It seems as if the apple doesn’t fall too far from the tree.
Luke Poulter, the 18-year-old son of Ian Poulter, captured his first collegiate victory in the 2022 Willow Cup at Willow Point Golf and Country Club in Alabama. Even more impressive is how the freshman at Florida finished.
He went 4 under in his final six holes, carding a 4-under 68 in the second round of the 36-hole event. He was 5 under on the back nine en route to his one-shot victory over Auburn’s Ryan Eshleman. Fellow Gator Parker Bell and Alabama’s Jones Free tied for third at 7 under.
Ian took to Twitter to share his excitement for Luke.
I know this has felt a very long time coming… But Luke we couldn’t more proud. Winning isn’t easy and it’s not supposed to be. The hours of hard work and disappointments make this all the sweeter. You will reach your goals and more..
@GatorsGolf love ya buddy
pic.twitter.com/9zOyOKXzTW
— Ian Poulter (@IanJamesPoulter) December 13, 2022
Earlier this year, Luke made the quarterfinals of the English Amateur Championship and made match play in the R&A Boys Amateur. Luke also caddied for pops at the 150th Open Championship at St. Andrews.
Luke hasn’t appeared in the Gators’ lineup this season, but he could make his way in come this spring.