Walker Cup Memories: Justin Leonard

Justin Leonard went 3-0-0 in the 1993 Walker Cup Match. (USGA Museum)

Justin Leonard helped the USA to a 19-5 victory at the 1993 Walker Cup Match by posting a 3-0-0 record at Interlachen Country Club in Edina, Minn. To this date, it is the largest margin of victory in the competition’s history. Leonard, the 1992 U.S. Amateur champion and 1994 NCAA Division I individual champion, went on to win the 1997 British Open among his 12 PGA Tour wins.

What do you remember about playing in the Walker Cup?

I just remember how excited I was about playing in it and that it turned out to be as fun as I hoped it would be. A lot of great memories. I played with Allen Doyle and he was great to be around. We only got to play in one [foursomes] because we got rained out on Saturday morning, but still it was a great week. Even the practice rounds were fun.

Other than winning the U.S. Amateur, would that be the highlight of your amateur career?

Yes, easily. Playing at home and winning the way we did, it was a really great experience, and I think anyone who has that opportunity is better for it. Just the whole atmosphere is really neat. You make a lot of new friends -- from both teams and it's another level of golf, another experience that makes you a better player.

- Dave Shedloski