Made It!

In the end the universe was good, at least to me. Other players slipped back, and I was the last player to earn his Tour card, number 25 on the money list, with only $2,010 to spare. Intense joy collided with intense relief—fireworks and waterworks.

Making the PGA Tour means everything to me. Ever since college the goal has been to play against the best and see what I'm capable of. I've been a pro golfer for 13 years—13 years of blood, sweat and tears. I'm 36 years old, but I feel like I'm 23 again.

Cinderella story or not, I don't want to simply make an appearance at the dance and rush home. The goal is to make a life on the PGA Tour. Much of this season will be about taking advantage of opportunities and finding a way to stay sharp when I'm not getting into events. The competition is harder, but I know if I bring my game, I can succeed, and I'm going to work as hard as anyone. I'll try my best on every shot in every round, whether I'm in contention or miles from making the cut. This turtle is in the race for the long haul.

Now on GOLF.com

Can 36-year-old rookie Justin Hicks keep his Tour card? Follow his progress at GOLF.com