One-handed chipper Jason Palmer qualifies for US Open
England’s Jason Palmer – famous for his unique one-handed chipping style – will compete at next month’s US Open after coming through qualifying at Walton Heath.
At one stage the 28-year-old was two over par but fired nine birdies with no dropped shots to make the top 11 and qualify for the event at Chambers Bay.
“I’m absolutely thrilled. I’ve always wanted to play in a Major,” Palmer said.
Frenchman Alexander Levy finished on top at the 36-hole event to also secure a maiden US Open appearance.
Video tips: How to chip one handed with Jason Palmer
The other qualifiers were Shiv Kapur, John Parry, Alex Noren, Lucas Bjerregaard, Marcel Siem, Garth Mulroy and Thomas Aiken.
Padraig Harrington and Ross Fisher were among those who failed to make the grade.
The chipping is incredibly unique but it has saved my career “I knew this would present a good opportunity to do it because I love Walton Heath,” Palmer added.
“I’m delighted. It started to creep into my mind on the back nine, but I told myself not to be stupid. I had to refocus.
Jason Palmer video tips: How to play a one handed bunker shot
“The chipping is incredibly unique but it has saved my career, because there is no way I’d be competing as a professional if I didn’t find the one-handed method.
“At the end of last year I went from 50th on the Challenge Tour to having a win, a second place, and being on The European Tour and now this. I’m having an incredible time. I love the game of golf and at the moment it is being good to me.
Video tips: One handed chipping clinic with Jason Palmer
“I doubt there have been many one handed chippers at the US Open before. The rough might be a bit too deep to play one-handed, so I’ll have to assess it when I get there, but it is a problem I’m looking forward to have.
“If it is more of a linksy course it might suit me. I’d like it to play firm and fast, like it was here. But to play the US Open is an absolute dream come true and it has definitely not sunk in yet.”
Meet Jason Palmer…the one handed chipper