Jack Nicklaus’ son Gary wins three-way playoff to qualify for U.S. Senior Open

More over, Jack. There’s another Nicklaus in town. The Golden Bear might hold the record for most majors wins ever, but his career is in the rearview. His son Gary, however, still has a shot at major glory after winning a three-man playoff to qualify for the U.S. Senior Open.

Gary Nicklaus, who turned 50 in January, decided to try his hand at a sectional qualifier to get into the U.S. Senior Open in his first year of eligibility. The qualifier took place at The Bear’s Club in Florida, a club founded by, who else, Jack and Barbara Nicklaus.

According to Jack, Gary was even through 16 holes when he heard he needed a two-under 70 to get into a playoff. That wasn’t a problem for Gary. He birdied the final two holes, then defeated two opponents on the first hole of a sudden-death playoff to earn his spot.

His proud father congratulated him on Twitter Friday night, posting a photo of Gary with his son GT, who caddied for his dad in the tournament. Jack closed out the tweet by sneaking in a lighthearted jab at his grandson’s chosen hairtsyle, “Caddie (son GT) needs haircut!”

Proud of son Gary who qualified today for #USSeniorOpen! Gary, a senior rookie, was even thru 16 in qualifier at The Bear’s Club, heard he needed 2-under 70 to get in playoff for last of 2 spots & birdied last 2 holes. Won 3-man playoff on 1st hole!
Caddie (son GT) needs haircut! pic.twitter.com/pybP2jlj7k

— Jack Nicklaus (@jacknicklaus) June 7, 2019

Though he doesn’t have as sterling a resume as his father, Gary Nicklaus is not new to the pro game. He spent three years on the PGA Tour from 2000-2003 before returning to the amateur ranks. After turning 50 this year, he joined the Champions Tour and has competed in three events so far.

Gary’s son and caddie GT Nicklaus isn’t too bad with a club in his hands either. In a moment the family won’t soon forget, GT made a hole-in-one at the 2018 Masters Par-3 Contest while caddying for Jack, setting off an exuberant celebration featuring cameos from Jack, Tom Watson and Gary Player.

The 2019 U.S. Senior Open takes place June 24-30, 2019 at The Warren Golf Course at Notre Dame in South Bend, Indiana.

To receive GOLF’s all-new newsletters, subscribe for free here.