A Journey of Dedication: Shane Bertsch’s Quest at the U.S. Senior Open
Shane Bertsch, a veteran in the world of professional golf, feels a unique connection to his roots as he competes in the U.S. Senior Open at The Broadmoor, just a short drive from where he was raised. With his family by his side, Bertsch emphasizes that the journey is as important as the destination, especially in a career that has seen its share of ups and downs.
The Evergreen High School alumnus and Parker resident, along with his wife Monica and their two daughters, has turned the demanding lifestyle of a touring golfer into a family adventure. “We chose to travel together because being away for long stretches can be tough,” Bertsch explained. “Monica has always been there to support me.” This week, he hopes for a significant milestone—his first win in a major tournament after 37 years of professional competition.
“This would be incredible,” Bertsch remarked prior to the tournament’s start. He opened with a solid first round, posting a score of 1-under 69 on the East Course, positioning himself among the elite competitors, including legends like Ernie Els and Vijay Singh. “It’s crucial to get off to a good start in any tournament, especially a U.S. Open,” he added, reflecting on his performance.
A Journey Defined by Resilience
Shane Bertsch’s path to golf began in his youth, where he initially showed promise as a tennis player. At age 13, he faced off against tennis star Andre Agassi in a regional match, an experience that shaped his future. Although he lost, the encounter inspired him to switch his focus to golf. “That was my turning point; I started taking summer jobs at Evergreen Golf Course,” he recalled. From there, he honed his skills and set his sights on becoming a professional golfer.
Bertsch’s career spans multiple tours, with notable achievements including three wins on the Web.com Tour and a recent victory in the PGA Tour Champions in August 2020. Throughout his career, he has amassed over $6.8 million in earnings, a testament to his perseverance. “It hasn’t always been easy,” he mentioned, reflecting on the challenges of maintaining a family life while pursuing his passion.
Family Support and Milestones
Accompanying Bertsch this week is his family, including his brother Jesse, who has returned to caddie for him after an eight-year break. For both brothers, this reunion holds sentimental value, especially following the passing of their father. With added joy, Bertsch’s daughters and his first grandson, 10-week old AJ, are also present, making this tournament a cherished family affair.
“I’m excited for my grandson to be here, even if he doesn’t quite understand what’s going on,” Bertsch said with a smile. “I can’t wait for the day we can share golfing and fishing together.” The support from his family enriches this professional journey, making each moment in the spotlight even more meaningful.
Current Tournament Standings
| Player Name | Round 1 Score | Position |
|---|---|---|
| Shane Bertsch | 1-under 69 | Tied for 15th |
| Ernie Els | 2-under 68 | Tied for 5th |
| Vijay Singh | Even 70 | Tied for 20th |
As the tournament unfolds, Bertsch finds joy in sharing his passion for golf with his loved ones, cherishing every moment spent together. “I’m just hoping to put something together this week,” he concluded, filled with determination as he steps onto the greens once again.
