2002 PGA champion Rich Beem celebrates making the cut at Baltusrol
By Keith Jackson
Last Updated: 29/07/16 10:10pm
Rich Beem admitted he had to arrange some hasty laundry after surprising even himself by making the halfway cut at the PGA Championship.
The 2002 champion from Arizona rolled back the years to fire a brilliant opening 69 on Thursday, but he did not make the best of starts to his second round in the early-morning rain on Friday as he bogeyed three of the first four holes.
But 'Beemer', now established as a popular member of the Sky Sports commentary team, rallied with a 30-foot putt for birdie at the fifth, only to give the shot back following a blocked drive into thick rough at the seventh.
"The American", or "Sir Richard" - as Ewen Murray now calls him after his remarkable performance at Baltusrol - began the back-nine with a nice birdie at the 10th, although another bogey at 16 left him needing a birdie at one of the final two holes to guarantee a place at the weekend.
And after missing a great chance from eight feet at 17, Beem was 30 yards short of the 18th green in two before pitching to a couple of feet and knocking in the putt to close out a battling 72 - one over for the tournament.
After signing his card, Beemer headed to the Sky Sports commentary box and admitted he had to arrange some fresh wardrobe for the weekend having made the cut for only the fourth time since his memorable win at Hazeltine 14 years ago.
Watch the video above to see the highlights of Rich Beem's second round as he expresses his delight - and surprise - at making it into the weekend of the PGA Championship.
