Invitation to play by Koepka

The scene takes place in the field of practice of the famous club The Floridian, in Palm City, in the midst of a pandemic in May. Hugo Bernard trains alongside a few professionals, including his model Brooks Koepka. After a while, the pro with four major titles in his pocket sends an invitation that still echoes in the mind of the Quebecer: “Boys, let’s go play! “

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Bernard grabs his bag and follows the parade towards the mound. It is accompanied by some big sizes.

“There were seven of us. I honestly say that I didn’t ask a question and didn’t really talk about golf,” said Bernard of this 2020 highlight, still captivated by this scene six months later.

“If I had bugged Brooks with my questions, I can certify that I would not have played with him the next day as I could,” he added jokingly.

This scene took place in his first week attending the club located on the Treasure Coast.

Just known

His baptism by fire, he lived it with none other than the owner of the Floridian. On his first day, Bernard started in the morning with a certain Jim Crane, owner and president of the Houston Astros, in Major League Baseball.

“When I heard that I was scheduled to leave at 9 am, I texted everyone I was so upset, said the man who thought he was playing with a professional star. I haven’t slept all night. I arrived at the practice range at 7:00 am, nervous as I had never been.

“But there wasn’t a damn cat,” he laughs. I watched each car enter the property, believing I would spot Dustin Johnson or Koepka. I knew a little later that the owner was waiting for me. Which is also a great way to break the ice. “

The Floridian is an ultra private club of the caliber of the Medalist, near Jupiter, also frequented by the Tiger Woods and co. During his stay, Bernard set off alongside the Koepka, Johnson, Rickie Fowler, Shane Lowry and other big stars.

This experience turned out to be formative for the Quebecer. She also gave him the energy to face a summer like no other. From mid-December, he will be back in action on the PGA Tour Latin America circuit.