US Open in Oakmont: the English amateur Tyler Weaver learns from Brooks Koepka during the major beginnings
It is a dream scenario.
“100%,” said Tyler to BBC Sport in an interview that you can listen to in full the US Open preview program of 5 Live Wednesday from 9:00 p.m. BST.
“Playing a major has always been a dream of me, so to be here, it’s a bit surreal. But I’m going to go out and compete as well as possible.”
Staying composed in the finishing section in Atlanta, when he knew that the goal of playing his first major was at a distance from the sidelines, was proof of the rapid progress he made.
“Obviously, I was nervous,” he admitted. “Knowing how much each shot meant and what it could lead to. So I just stood in my processes and I am really happy to be here.
“It certainly gives you a lot of confidence and you can learn by being in these pressure situations and that is what I will continue to try to do.”
Her 22 year old brother Max will be his shopping cart in one of the most difficult sites in sports. They both started playing golf in Newmarket at an early age.
“We were still playing,” said Max. “And Tyler always seemed to follow me, in anything.
“So his golf swing was always a little better than mine. And he’s now even faster than me. So I’m just trying to track him down.”
The younger brothers and sisters can annoy you. “They are boring, yes,” laughs max. “But I couldn’t be more proud. It’s a special week here.”
Dad and Maman Fiona will walk at each stage of the path when Tyler ends late on the first day at 2:31 pm local time (19:31 BST).
“It is fiercely competitive in the family,” said Jason, who led more than 1,000 winners before retiring from the race at the age of 30 in 2002.
“They both picked up a club early. They saw me go out, cut it, and they are much better than I could never dream of being.”
By practicing alongside Koepka, the US Open winner in 2017 and 2018, Tyler could exploit one of the most successful minds in the championship.
“He also went to Florida state,” said Tyler. “So he likes to help the program and I am here with my head coach, Trey Jones.
“And fortunately, Brooks was able to embark on a tour of practice with me. And being there was really special, learning him.
“I asked a lot of questions and yes, it was incredible. He just said that a great thing about us open is to keep doubles out of the map.
“He said, it takes only one hole to catch up with a bogey. But a double bogey is two birdies. And the birdies here are really difficult, so it’s a great thing.”
Each Tyler movement will be carefully monitored to the Newmarket Links club, where the members have collected funds to buy equipment for their most promising junior to help develop their game.
“It means a lot for me and I just want to thank all these people at home who have helped me since I was young,” said the former English champion under 18. “I can’t thank them enough.”
Being based in the United States, Tyler welcomes the fact that this week proves something from a family meeting. But it is also ambitious to perform well in the most difficult arena in golf.
“Obviously, making the cut and putting yourself in the running would be great,” said Tyler. “But being here with my family after being far from them for so long is really special.”
And there is no wiping of the smile of his father’s face. “We are excited”, radiated Jason. “We are ready and we are looking forward to the week.
“A late departure, then a start (08:45 local Friday). It is the bounce of the ball. We are going to give it our best shot.
“The boys are in very good condition. I am extremely proud and they are ready.”
