Has shown a definite liking for the Irish air in 1998 and 1999. Finished fifth in Murphy's Irish Open after playing with Colin Montgomerie on the final day in 1998, then tied for that position in the Smurfit European Open at The K Club. Those finishes secured his card for 1999. Returned to Druids Glen in 1999 after an enforced five week break and opened with a 65, eventually claiming a share of 13th place. Missed several tournaments to fly to his native Kansas to visit his father, Pete, who required surgery after a heart attack. Had two unsuccessful visits to the US Tour Qualifying School and also tried European Tour Qualifying School in 1996. Eventually gained card through Challenge Tour in 1997, thanks to a victory in the Perrier European Pro-Am.