Tom McKnight

Worked in the petroleum distributorship business for 20 years and was the former owner of a chain of On The Way convenience stores in the Carolinas after breaking his left arm in a pick-up basketball game. Made decision to leave golf when doctors thought he wouldn't be able to adequately swing a golf club...Biggest thrills in golf were playing on the U.S. team in the World Amateur and the Walker Cup...Biggest thrill away from golf was watching the birth of his three children...Lists his family as his heroes for their support over the years and for their persistence in pursuing their own dreams and goals...Favorites include Jimmy Buffett, Larry Bird, "CSI," "Top Gun" and any Patricia Cornwell book...Favorite golf course is Seminole GC. One course he'd like to play is St. Andrews...An all-district basketball player in high school.
Earned fully-exempt status for 2005 by finishing second at the Champions Tour National Qualifying Tournament at the King and Bear at World Golf Village in Florida. Completed the six-round event 23-under-par and finished two strokes behind medalist Mark Johnson. Tied the course record in the final round when he fired a 9-under-par 63, his sixth consecutive sub-par round in the event. Made one start during 2004 at the Constellation Energy Classic where he was T12th playing on a sponsor's exemption.
2005 Champions Tour Summary: tournaments entered - 24; top 10 finishes - 3; stroke average 71.30 (ranked 33rd); money $524,034 (ranked 31st); Best finish, T-3rd Ford Senior Players Championship.
2006 Champions Tour Summary: tournaments entered - 25; top 10 finishes - 2; stroke average 71.91 (ranked 50th); money $358,686 (ranked 47th); Best finish, 5th Regions Charity Classic.
2007 Champions Tour Summary: Tournaments entered - 18; top 10 finishes -3; stroke average 71.05 (ranked 26th); money $415,521 (ranked 45th); Best finish, 3rd Commerce Bank Championship.
Regained exempt status for 2009 with 3rd place finish at Q-school.
2008 Champions Tour Summary: Tournaments entered - 22; top 10 finishes- 1; stroke average 71.44 (ranked 40th); money $375,379 (ranked 49th); best finish, T4th, Greater Hickory Classic at Rock Barn.