Climo to Throw Hole 1’s Tee Shot on Wednesday

5-time US Champ Ken Climo had hopes of playing an entire round during the 20th Anniversary of the USDGC, but decided against it so he wouldn’t stall the recovery of a nagging hip injury that has kept him from playing competitively the last few years.
Though Climo will not be playing a full round, he will throw the tee shot of Hole 1. In a move to showcase two of the best players in USDGC history, Climo will be paired with fellow USDGC great Barry Schultz (along with two other players) at the 8:30 a.m. tee time.

Come watch Climo & Schultz Tee off for Round 1

We invite anyone available to come watch this special tee time. 15 years ago, both Climo and Schultz played Hole 1 three times during the epic 2003 playoff, birdying it each time.
Climo said he’s been plagued with hip bursitis that stems from landing wrong on his hip 10 years ago.

Barry Schultz and Ken Climo at 2005 Player Meeting.

Since he’s had to favor it while moving it’s also triggered lower back pain.
“I can play a round of disc golf. It’s the next day, though … And it hurts for 2 or 3 weeks after if it gets aggravated,” said Climo, adding that he’s tried a number of avenues for relief including seeing an orthopedic surgeon, going to an acupuncturist, but nothing really seems to have worked.

Tune-in to Climo’s live video commentary during Round 3

On Monday, Climo said he was planning to play at least the first round. Though the pain was still present, he said his injury felt more manageable than it has been in the last two years.
However, Tuesday afternoon, Climo informed tournament officials he’d be pulling out after the first hole so he wouldn’t jeopardize his recovery.

Though Climo won’t be seen on the course after Hole 1, he will be seen during the USDGC’s live coverage as a guest commentator during Thursday’s Round 3 and possibly for the final round as well.
That should be a treat for anyone that tunes-in because not many know Winthrop Gold like Ken Climo.