HAMILTON, Ontario – The 13e hole at Hamilton Golf & Country Club has been transformed into the “Rink” hole this year, complete with hockey boards on three sides of the tee, goalie masks as tee markers and a Zamboni on a hill overlooking the green.
The “Rink” hole has become one of the most unique and entertaining scenes on the PGA Tour, but for Mackenzie Hughes it was a somber opportunity to remember and honor Bill Bath, a “family friend” who died earlier this year.
Hughes said he met Bath when Hughes was 11 years old and on holiday in Cuba and that Bath was “a big part of [Hughes’] journey.” In honor of Bath, Hughes wore one of his friend’s hockey jerseys while playing the 13e hole.
‘I’ve thought about him a lot in recent months. His wife and son watched me here. It’s a little emotional, even putting that on when I think about him,” Hughes said. “I know the last time I was here he actually caddied for me. So many wonderful memories with him and his family. That was kind of the reason behind the jersey.”
Despite two late bogeys, Hughes scored a 64 in the second round, the Canadian’s lowest score in his national championship, thanks to two eagles. The first eagle came on the par-4 12th, his third hole of the day, when he holed his approach shot from 79 yards. He matched that on the par-5 fourth with a 12-foot putt.
“When I made the Eagle Putt on 4, I knew I was in the lead or close to the lead,” he said. “I knew I was there. I did a great job most of the day. The finish was not what I expected, but I am happy with the result.”
