Scott Masingill need look no further than the Toshiba Classic's defending champion for proof that a longtime amateur can beat the PGA Tour stars.
Mark Johnson, a former Budweiser truck driver, was a renowned amateur in California before he turned pro in 1998. He spent six years competing on tours such as the Canadian and Nationwide, plus entering the PGA Tour National Qualifying Tournament, to prepare for the Champions Tour.
He turned 50 in 2004 and won the Champions Tour National Qualifying Tournament later that year to earn his way onto the tour.
He's exempt for this season because he finished 28th on the money list last year.
"Getting through Q School — there's no question that's the hardest thing," Johnson said.
Johnson has become popular with fans, particularly this week. He's from Barstow, Calif., and fans still remember him holing a wedge on No. 18 to win last year's event.
Plus, they all call him "Beer Man."
He's contending again this week, but feels the same pressures as Masingill. He must finish in the top 30 on the money list this season to retain his exempt status.
"The quality of golf is absolutely awesome," he said. "You're playing against the best guys in the world at 50 and over."
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