Knapp notches first pro win

SAN JACINTO — Jake Knapp grabbed his first professional win with a victory that earned him exempt status on the PGA Tour Canada Mackenzie Tour in 2017.

Knapp, a former Estancia standout who played for UCLA, cruised to victory on Friday at the Mackenzie Tour – PGA TOUR Canada’s USA West No. 2 Q-School, shooting a three-under-par 68 at the Country Club at Soboba Springs to earn medalist honors.

The 22-year old finished the week seven strokes ahead of Nick Delio, taking advantage of his length off the tee and an improved wedge game to conclude the week at 16-under 268.

“I had the advantage on a lot of the holes to be able to take some of the hazards out of play, so if I knew if I could drive it straight and have a lot of shots between 100-150 yards, that would give me opportunities to make birdies,” Knapp told PGATour.com.

After playing his way onto the Tour midway through last season, Knapp made two of seven cuts and said he’s looking forward to having another chance at competing in Canada this summer.

“Overall, getting a little redemption back,” Knapp said of his goals for the season, speaking optimistically after working on tightening his wedge game in the offseason. “My game’s changed enough now where I think it’s going to fit the courses a little bit better. It’s about being able to score a little better and ideally put myself in a position to win.”