The Times, with files from Canwest News Service
Published: Tuesday, July 29, 2008

After barely missing the cut at the U.S. Open in June, Nick Taylor showed just why he might be Canada's bright new future of golf at this year's RBC Canadian Open in Oakville, Ont.

The Abbotsford product shot a final-round even-par 70 on Sunday to finish the tournament 1 under, posting the best finish by a Canadian amateur since 1972 and finishing second amongst all 19 Canucks in the field behind 2003 Masters Champion Mike Wier, who finished tied for fifth in this year's Canadian Open.

"I hit it well here, and I putted very well," said Taylor. "I think everything went pretty well."

But the 20-year-old's showing at this year's Canadian Open did not just happen overnight.

It's been a whirlwind couple of months for Taylor, who competed in his first of what may be many U.S. Opens just a few days after he completed his final exams at the University of Washington where he plays for the school's golf team at the NCAA level.

Playing in the U.S. Open in June, the same tournament where Tiger Woods stole the show and captured the second major of the season, albeit on one healthy leg, was a valuable learning experience for Taylor.

"Being at the U.S. Open was huge," said Taylor. "There were so many people there, a lot of people supporting me. It was a big deal."

Even with the recent success that Taylor has had with his golf career, the Ledgeview member will remain an amateur, going back to university to complete his education.

"I've always planned to do four years of school and get a degree," said Taylor.

"College life, college golf, it's pretty awesome. I really don't want to miss two years of it."