Tom Kite and Tom Watson are the only players to have played in every U.S. Open played at Pebble Beach Golf Links, but only Watson is a cinch to make it five for five in two weeks. Watson, the winner there in 1982, was given a special exemption by the USGA.
Kite, who won there in 1992, will attempt to play his way in via 36-hole sectional qualifying at Columbine Country Club outside Denver on Monday.
At that, Kite is not the most notable name who will partake in one of the 13 sectional qualifiers around the country. That honor goes to Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo.
Monterey, Calif., native Bobby Clampett, who threatened to win the Open at Pebble Beach in 1982, also has advanced to sectional qualifying. Among other notables participating will be Ty Tryon, Erik Compton and Andrew Giuliani.
-- John Strege
