Overview

• Colin Prater, a high school biology teacher, qualified for the U.S. Open by finishing second in a 36-hole qualifier.
• Prater, an accomplished amateur golfer, is experiencing his first U.S. Open and has had practice rounds with top players like Jordan Spieth and Scottie Scheffler.
• Rory McIlroy's advice to Prater emphasized patience and hitting the middle of the green, which resonated deeply with him.
• Prater balances his passion for golf with his dedication to teaching and family, planning to return to his normal life post-tournament.
• His primary goal is to make the cut and play all four days of the U.S. Open.