If Kip Henley only knew 30 years ago what he knows now, then he could have been a star instead of playing a supporting role on the PGA Tour.
The former University of Tennessee at Chattanooga golfer quit school in 1982 to give it a whirl as a touring pro. He also spent time as a club professional and won the Big Break II in 2004 which netted popularity but not Nationwide Tour success.
But Henley has been caddying for Brian Gay on the PGA Tour for four years and learned more about playing the game in that time than all of his previous experiences – and there were many – combined.
“Even though I was a club pro and tried to get on tour, I never had what it took,” Henley said. “If somebody would have said in ’82 that you have to caddy for B.G., I think I could have made it.
“Looking back, good Lord I was stupid. I was dumb on the golf course.”
Henley played pretty smart at Council Fire Golf Club on Wednesday. Henley shot a 4-under 68 to back up a 2-under round which has him leading the Tennessee Section Professional Championship with a 6-under total of 138.
Henley started his round with three straight birdies and finished with six birdies and an eagle which were countered by four bogeys.
“It’s a miracle I’m playing this well,” said Henley, who has helped Gay earn more than $1.2 in prize money this season. “I figured I’d waste $300 bucks and hang out with buddies. But they liked me better when I was shooting 80s in these things.
“I would like to keep it going for another day.”
As a caddy, Henley doesn’t get to play much. Maybe once a month he’ll play 18 holes if he and Gay arrive early for a tournament of the caddies organize a special tournament.
“A few of the younger caddies will carry for 18 holes then go play,” said the 50-year-old. “I can’t do that. I’m done after walking 18 with B.G.”
Henley leads former UTC golfer and East Ridge graduate Brian Lackey by one shot. Lackey shot 5 under on Wednesday with seven birdies and two bogeys.
“It’s been a long times since I’ve played well, about four or five years since I had a good tournament round,” said Lackey who works at the Johnny Warren Golf Academy in Gallatin. “I’ve played in a few more tournaments this year hoping that one day I could put it together and see this happen.”
Chattanooga Golf and Country Club head pro Bruce Etter is tied for third with Loren Personett and two strokes back. The Honors Course head pro Henrik Simonsen is tied for sixth and five shots back. Council Fire pro Richard Rebne is tied for 11th.
They’re all chasing Henley and his trademark spiked white hair.