Murrysville native Palmer Jackson spent two weeks earlier this month competing in the DP World Tour (PGA European Tour) Q-school qualifier.
And while he fell short of earning full exemption to the tour by two shots, he did return home with a job.
He earned exemption to the Challenger Tour, which is similar to the PGA Korn Ferry Tour.
The Challenger Tour competes in different countries, including South Africa, India, Spain, France, Ireland, Scotland, Finland and Abu Dhabi.
“The biggest thing to come out of the second stage and final stage is that I got a job,” said Jackson, who shot an 8-under par 63 during the final round to finish in the Top 30. “You have to start somewhere.”
He needed to finish in the top 20 to earn an exemption.
He finished the six-round final stage by shooting a 16-under par 412.
Two bad holes during Round 5 probably cost him a Top 20 finish. He had a 3-over par 74.
His round included a 4-over par 8 and a double bogey 6. It also included four birdies.
“You can say it cost me, but I had other opportunities,” Jackson said. “During the final stage I really don’t think I played all that well. What I did do was putt. It’s probably the best I’ve putted for a while.”
The final stage was played Lakes and Hills Courses at Infinitum Golf in Tarragona, Spain.
Jackson shot a 6-under par 66 during Round 1 at the Hills Course and followed with an even-par 71 at the Lakes Course.
He shot a 2-under par 70 at the Hills course during Round 3 and followed with a 3-under 68 at the Lakes Course in Round 4.
The field was trimmed to the top 65 and ties for the final two rounds.
After his 3-over 74, Jackson played one of the best rounds of his career, an 8-under 63 which included two eagles, six birdies and a double bogey.
“I didn’t have a number in mind, I just went out and played,” Jackson said. “I put myself back in contention and was pleased how I finished.”
His six-round totals included two eagles and 33 birdies.
Jackson does have limited exemptions to some of the DP World Tour events.
During the Second Stage at Desert Springs Resort in Almeria, Spain, Jackson played well.
He finished second by shooting a 19-under par 269. Jiri Zuska won at 20-under but finished 13-under during the final stage and did not earn a card.
Jackson shot a 68, 67, 67 and a 67.
His four-day rounds included an eagle, 22 birdies and 5 bogeys.
Jackson’s season is now over.
The 2019 Franklin Regional graduate advanced to the Korn Ferry Tour Second Stage with an 11th-place finish at Henryville, Ind.
The 2018 PIAA champion finished 13-under par 275. He shot a 68, 70, 66 and 71.
“I’m going to rest and strengthen my body,” Jackson said. “I’ll be working on some things.”