Canadians seek consistency, first Tour wins
After a whirlwind 2016 that included a trip to the Rio Olympics, Canadian golfers David Hearn and Graham DeLaet are looking forward to a more straightforward year on the PGA Tour.
Both Hearn, 37, and DeLaet, who turns 35 on Sunday, are aware of the expectations they face as they chase a first Tour win. DeLaet got as high as 26th in the world rankings a few years ago, but the veterans have since seen younger players Nick Taylor and Mackenzie Hughes capture PGA Tour victories before they were able to crack the winner’s circle.
“I’d certainly love to get that first win soon,” said Hearn from his home in Delray Beach, Fla. “The guys are getting younger on Tour, there’s no doubt.
“Actually, they’re coming on at the same age, and I’m getting a little bit older,” he added with a laugh. “I’m excited and proud to see the young Canadians find success on the PGA Tour and winning tournaments, but I don’t think that puts extra pressure on me.” DeLaet agrees. “My motivation has always been the same no matter who I am competing against,” he explained from Boise, Idaho.
While both Hearn and DeLaet enjoyed a rare experience in Rio, where golf made its return after 112 years, DeLaet had another offcourse highlight. He and his wife Ruby welcomed twins Roscoe and Lyla in late 2015 and it was his first full year as a father.
Although DeLaet said it was “the best year of (his) life,” he admitted he got frustrated battling injuries as he earned the least amount of money since his 2011 season. DeLaet also withdrew from a tournament midsummer, citing anxiety.
Hearn had a steady season, finishing 56th in the FedEx Cup standings and earning more than US$1.2 million.