Vilips shoots 61 at #NortheastAm

Karl Vilips corresponded to the Wannamoisett orbit record of 61. Image: Northeast Amateur.

Australian Karl Vilips is determined to take the lead in the Northeast Amateur Invitational Tournament in Rhode Island after a blistering 61 equal to the track record at Wannamoisett Country Club today.

Vilips, 17, now living and studying in Florida, was in 2011 equal to the nine-under-par number of the former golfer of the University of Illinois and PGA Tour professional Luke Guthrie.

Vilips had a 30-footer at number 18 for 60. Although a healthy crowd came together to see an opportunity in history, Vilips was unaware and left the pit dead in the heart of the cup but a foot deficit.

"I had no idea that my putt was at number 18 for the course record," said Vilips. "The putt for 60 was downhill, a bit fast and I wanted to finish in two. I would have given the putt a chance if I knew I had the chance to set the course record."

The round of 61 is also the Vilips tournament. After devoting himself to Stanford University for 2020, he anticipates his university career.

"As I get closer to the university, a score like this means a lot," Vilips said. "Because it shows that I can do this at the highest level. It gives me motivation in the future. It is a good self-confidence boost."

The highlight of the day for Vilips was a 20-yard chip-in at number 16, bringing him to seven-under in the round. "After I handed in four-under, I knew that this round could be something special," said Vilips. "The back nine is easier. And I was able to keep up the pace.

"I had four-under as a good score for today. When I had achieved that up to nine times, I wanted to keep pushing and get up from the top."