Newman missed cut, wanted much more

AUGUSTA, Ga. -- Jack Newman didn't make the 36-hole cut of the Masters, but gave a terrific account of himself.

The 21-year-old Michigan State junior from Des Moines missed the cut by three strokes after his 4-over-par 76 put him at 4-over 148 for two rounds.

"I never got into a rhythm today," Newman said.

"I had a couple miscues firing, so it was pretty frustrating."

The 2008 U.S. Amateur Public Links titlist awoke Friday morning as the best-scorer of the five amateurs in the field, but said "It didn't really mean anything because I'm trying to finish top 16 (out of everyone), get back."

The top 16 finishers and ties receive automatic Masters invitations for 2010.

Reinier Saxton, last year's British Amateur champion, had a second-round 72 for a 147 total, beating Newman as low amateur by a stroke.

"Personally I could care less about low amateur," said Newman. "I just wanted to come out here and compete with these guys, and I didn't."

But when asked what he would take away from this week, his reply was "That I can play with these guys.

"It was really different, tons of fun, and hopefully I can get back here someday."

Anything else?

"Short game needs a hell of a lot of improvement."