Anthony Quayle's Remarkable Comeback: Overcoming a Seven-Shot Penalty to Nearly Win the Victorian PGA Championship

**The Rookie Mistake** During the tournament held at the picturesque Moonah Links, Quayle found himself in a challenging situation due to a misunderstanding regarding the rules. Preferred lies were allowed on a portion of the third fairway; however, Quayle mistakenly believed that this rule applied more broadly. His playing partner, Tyler McCumber, raised the question, prompting Quayle to double-check the official guidelines. Unfortunately, he realized too late that the preferred lies applied only to a specific area on a single hole. “I had just assumed, on this tour we play preferred lies a lot. I’m kicking myself now,” Quayle admitted, acknowledging his oversight. This rookie error cost him dearly as he lifted, cleaned, and placed his ball on four different holes, resulting in a hefty seven-shot penalty that turned his impressive 66 into a 73. **The Battle to Recover** Despite the setback, Quayle's determination shone through. Rather than letting the penalty deter him, he fought back vigorously throughout the tournament. His resilience and skill on the course allowed him to still contend for the title, ultimately finishing just two shots behind Cory Crawford. Quayle's ability to focus and maintain his composure under pressure speaks volumes about his character as a professional athlete. **Lessons Learned** Quayle’s experience serves as a valuable lesson for golfers at all levels. It emphasizes the importance of understanding the rules and regulations of the game, especially in a competitive environment. As Quayle reflected on his performance, he stated, “I’m sure when I reflect on this in a little bit of time, I’ll be really proud of this week.” This sentiment underscores the essence of sportsmanship—learning from mistakes and using them as stepping stones for future success.