27 birdies. That’s what number of Keegan Bradley made this week at the Vacationers Championship. That led him to a 23-under whole rating and a three-shot victory, immediately changing into a New England hero after successful his hometown occasion.

“That is for all the children that grew up in New England who needed to sit by the winters and watch different folks play golf,” Bradley mentioned to Amanda Renner of CBS Sports activities.

“I’m simply so proud to win this event — Vacationers and all people concerned placed on a first-class event. It’s been like this for a decade, and Im simply so proud to be the winner right here.”

The Vermont native has needed to win this event all of his life, and every thing got here collectively for him this week. Listening to the ‘Keegan’ chants as he approached the 18th inexperienced should have felt particular to him.

“I’m so fortunate and grateful to be from this New England space,” Bradley mentioned. “I simply can’t imagine it — this looks like a dream.”

Bradley went out in 32, making three birdies. He made the flip and made two extra birdies on the eleventh and twelfth. For a short while, it seemed like he would possibly break Justin Thomas’ 72-hole document of 253. However, he made three bogeys in his ultimate six holes to normalize the lead over the sector.

His placing was unbelievable this week. To make 27 birdies and simply 4 bogeys by 72 holes is spectacular. After lacking the reduce on the U.S. Open, his coach Darren Mahan got here to Connecticut and gave him a tune-up.

“One thing clicked on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and I performed nice up till the final 5 or 6 holes,” Bradley mentioned. “Fortunately sufficient, I had a large enough result in coast house.”

Savannah Richardson is a golf employees author for SB Nation’s Taking part in By. You’ll be able to comply with her on Twitter @SportsGirlSL and on Instagram @savannah_leigh_sports for extra golf protection. Be sure you take a look at @_PlayingThrough too.