by Kristie Boudwin
Daily Lobo
Spencer Levin spent his summer living an amateur golfer dream.
At 20 years old, Levin has accomplished more in his five years of competitive golf than many pros accomplish in an entire career. Over the summer, Levin competed in the U.S. Open and tied for 13th, the best finish for an amateur in the Open in 33 years.
He went directly from the Open to win the California State Amateur. He then won the 2004 Scratch Players Championship and the prestigious Porter Cup at Niagara Falls. Levin also finished second in two other amateur tournaments this summer.
Levin also had the only hole-in-one of the U.S. Open during his first round. Levin said of all his accomplishments, the great finish in the U.S. Open has meant the most to him.
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Levin finished higher than many big-name golfers, including Tiger Woods. He said he did not let his nerves interfere with his U.S. Open performance.
"I have been doing better at that, and it actually was not that hard," Levin said. "I just made sure I didn't get aggravated."
Levin's father Don is also an accomplished golfer. Don, who played in the 1983 U.S. Open and on the PGA Tour, is his son's golf coach. He attended the U.S. Open and other tournaments as his caddie.
Levin said his family is very supportive. His mother, father or grandparents usually travel with him to tournaments.
Levin said he has set high goals for himself and the UNM golf team for the 2004-2005 season.
"I would like to make All American this year," Levin said. "I hope our team can win the national championship - that is what every team is looking to do."
Levin said he sees himself pursuing his golf career at UNM and as a pro. Though Levin has not declared a major, he seems fairly certain about his future.
"I want to play pro," Levin said. "I want golf to be my job after college."
