Hagestad living dream as top amateur /
AUGUSTA, Ga. — This might be a good time for Stewart Hagestad to play the lottery.
His life is that charmed at the moment.
Hagestad, the California native and New York City financial analyst who got into the Masters field as the MidAmateur champion, not only became the first Mid-Am champion to make the cut, but on Sunday he secured his place as the low amateur.
For his efforts, Hagestad, who turns 26 on Monday, earned not only a gaudy piece of crystal, but a trip to the famed Butler Cabin to receive his honors.
“This is everything I dreamed about and more,’’ Hagestad said. “It’s my favorite course in the world and I got to test my game against the best players in the world. This was a literal dream come true.’’
Hagestad represented well all week, shooting 74-73-74-73, good for 6-over, which was three shots better than Aussie Curtis Luck, the only other amateur to make the cut.
“I told J.D. [caddie John Doherty] in the 10th fairway, ‘Hey, we’re playing Augusta National on Sunday afternoon, the day before my birthday, and it’s a perfect day,’ ’’ Hagestad said. “It doesn’t get much better than this. I felt like it was really, really important to go out and enjoy the day and enjoy the walk.’’
Hagestad said he had “no idea’’ where he stood in the amateur competition until Doherty told him after he had hit his approach shot onto the 18th green.
“J.D. said, ‘He finished even, he’s 9-over. You got a three-shot lead,’ and then he pulled me aside and he told me, ‘Hey, slow down, make sure to enjoy this walk.’ I had chills from about 75 yards out. I’m sure the emotions will hit me at some point.’’
Hagestad said his week featured “a lot of firsts’’ in his life and added, “Firsts are usually good. This is something I’ve long thought about, and to have it all come to fruition is an absolute dream come true.’’