Valimaki got his European Tour card at Q-school last year, and a T-7 finish at the recent ISPS Handa Vic Open in Australia hinted at a burgeoning potential that has been further underlined with this victory.
A bit like the Old Course that sits directly below his office window, R&A chief executive Martin Slumbers’ annual sit-down with members of the UK media typically offers up all kinds of angles.
Last year at the Saudi International, the bunkers at Royal Greens G&CC caused Sergio Garcia, one Spain’s all-time greats, to lose his damn mind. This year, another Spaniard, Adri Arnaus, ran into some serious trouble in a bunker as well, though he somehow managed to keep his cool.
Mickelson said he needed more time to weigh the proposal, saying he wants to know how it will affect fans and the game, but came away impressed by the group’s proposal.