Day to remember at Open for Aussie Gibson

The British Open is all about the experiences for Rhein Gibson and he certainly had one to remember in the third round.

The Australian world No.998’s reward for making the cut on his major championship debut was playing alongside golfing legend Tiger Woods and rising star Jordan Speith at Hoylake.

“That’s the biggest crowd I’ve ever played in front of,” Gibson said after a third-round 74 that left him at tied for 63rd at four over.

“I’m just glad I didn’t hit anyone to be honest.

“It was cool but it’s also tough, you know. They all respect him (Woods) so much and as soon as he putts out, they’re gone.”

While Gibson won’t be contending for victory on Sunday, he’ll take plenty of confidence and special memories away from Royal Liverpool.

As darkness fell on Saturday, the 29-year-old from New South Wales holed a 15-footer for birdie on the 18th green as a group of around 20 friends and family watched on, including his mum and dad and wife Nancy.

“They all hooted and hollered when I made that putt. It was great,” Gibson said.

Gibson qualified for his debut major with a fourth-place finish at the Australian Open in January.

He made headlines in 2012 when he shot a 16-under-par 55 at the River Oaks Golf Club in Oklahoma, a performance since recognised by Guinness World Records as the lowest round in history.

Gibson says he doesn’t want to be known as a one-round wonder and his performance this week has strengthened a belief he can compete at the highest level.

“I’ve always said that I’m here, so I can kind of play golf,” Gibson said.

“To make the cut solidified that (belief) a little bit.

“It would have been nice to play a little better today but I’ve still got tomorrow.

“I’ve made the cut in my first major. That was the goal so I’m pretty happy.”

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