June 11, 2003

OLYMPIA FIELDS, Ill. – Kentucky sophomore John Holmes will realize a personal dream on Thursday when he tees off in the 103rd U.S. Open at Olympia Fields Country Club near Chicago. The Campbellsville, Ky., native qualified for the tournament after shooting an 8-under par 136 in a two round qualifying tournament in Columbus, Ohio last week.

Holmes has been in Olympia Fields since Monday and has played two practice rounds, one on Tuesday and one on Wednesday and feels he can make a good showing.

“I feel really good,” Holmes said. “I was a little nervous at first, but after the first few holes I calmed down and just concentrated on playing golf.”

Holmes will tee off in the first group with Chad Campbell and Brad Elder at 8:00 a.m. ET. While it is an early start, he feels it will actually help him.

“Going off early is easier I think,” Holmes said. “There won’t be as many people out there as there will be later on. I’m sure I’m going to be nervous, it’s the U.S. Open and everybody will be a little nervous on the first tee.

“I’m just going to go out and treat it like a practice round and have fun. I’m hitting the ball really well and also putting well so I’m pretty confident I can make a good showing.”

Fans can follow the action live at USOPEN.com. ESPN and NBC also will be carrying live coverage throughout the tournament.