Kevin Streelman remembers first experience at Augusta National

Kevin Streelman described his first experience at Augusta National Golf Club years ago as “inspirational.”

Playing inspired golf Friday, Streelman remained in the hunt, shooting 1-under 71 in the second round to sit 1-under for the tournament.

He birdied three holes and played steadily throughout the morning, putting himself in contention for the weekend.

“Today, I drove it great and hit it where I needed to on the greens,” Streelman said. “I gave myself some looks and made a few putts.”

Streelman and fellow Illinois native D.A. Points were the first pair to tee off Friday. Points finished 6-over for the tournament.

Streelman played for Duke, which competed in Augusta State University’s tournament at Forest Hills Golf Club in 2001. He said they were given Monday practice-round tickets to the Masters Tournament, and he saw the course for the first time at age 22.

His first Masters as a competitor came 10 years later to the day.

“I remember my first time vividly,” Streelman said. “I was here, and it was one of the most inspirational moments of my life. It was like it blew me away.”