Sam Saunders is a 30 year old professional golfer. He just made the demanding cut at minus 2 at The Travelers yesterday and is poised for a strong weekend run. He attended Clemson University and skipped his senior year to turn professional. He has a best finish of 15th on the PGA Tour at Pebble Beach and last year shot a 59 in the first round of the Web.com Tour Championship, which included a 6 birdie finish.To date this year he has won $59089 on the PGA Tour. And by the way, he is the great Arnold Palmer’s only grandson.A fact which most knowledgeable golf fans are aware of when watching him play. We caught up with him yesterday in Cromwell,Ct. after he finished his round:
NYSD-I bet you are asked a lot about your grandfather and your relationship with him?
SS-I am and I enjoy the questions. He and my father were my swing coaches and the biggest influences on my golf game.
NYSD-You recently moved out to Colorado?
SS-I did, but I have gotten married and returned to Orlando. I needed to start my own life for a while in Colorado.
NYSD-You know the hat which I am wearing commererates the 50th anniversary of your grandfather winning the US Amateur in 1954.
SS-That was in Detroit.
NYSD-Your grandfather has a tremendous amount of memorabilia in a warehouse in Latrobe, Pa., do you think that there will ever be an auction of his items?
SS- No.My family has no intention of profiting from my grandfather’s memorabilia.It will travel around for people to view it.
NYSD-What about to benefit his Hospital in Orlando?
SS-Oh yes. Arnie’s Army donates many auction items for charitable causes.