Sullivan's travels take a turn for the better at Sunriver

Health issues in the last year left Chip Sullivan's competitive golf career very much in doubt. But by soaring up the leaderboard into a tie for second Saturday, the big question the Virginian now has to answer is whether he can win on Sunday.

By John Kim, PGA.com Coordinating Producer

SUNRIVER, Ore. -- About seven months ago, Chip Sullivan's competitive golf career seemed very much in doubt -- and that was the least of his concerns.

Diagnosed with hemochromatosis, Sullivan endured a series of blood-related medical work that would take care of the iron overload in his body -- but would ultimately lead to diabetes for the PGA Head Professional from Ashley Plantation in Daleville, Va. The loss of energy and strength, and the constant monitoring of blood sugar levels understandably left the winner of more than 80 PGA-sanctioned tournaments wondering about his ability to perform at the highest levels.

He need not wonder anymore. Sullivan scorched the long, difficult Crosswater Course at Sunriver Resort in a 4-under par 68 on a cool, blustery Saturday in which the conditions made scoring more difficult that it has been all week. Sullivan's round vaulted him up the leaderboard from a tie for 27th Saturday morning into a tie for second heading into the final round.

"There are a lot of good players out here, but I feel like I'm one of them," Sullivan said. "I know I can compete with these guys."

Sullivan sent a message early, starting the third round with an eagle-birdie start.

"It sure makes the round easier when you start out 3 under after two (holes)," he explained. "You can kind of relax and play a lot more comfortable."

In fact, Sullivan's performance is even more impressive if one considers he was 4 over par through the first 25 holes, and then has played the last 29 holes in 8 under par.

"I turned something bad into something good and started making some putts," he stated. "This has been a nice surprise."

Despite the long road back from his medical maladies, Sullivan refused to temper his goals or expectations as he approached this 40th PGA Professional National Championship.

"I'm definitely working towards getting into that top 20 (finishers here, who earn spots in the PGA Championship). It's all I've been working towards back home when I've found the time," he said. "My focus is to get back to the PGA Championship, try to better my finish from 2004 at Whistling Straights (31st)."

An additional motivator for Sullivan is to perform for his No. 1 fan, Kevin Naniewicz. Naniewicz is a family member in Pennsylvania with Down Syndrome, but passionately follows Sullivan's play all around the country via the Internet and television when possible.

"He loves golf, he loves to watch me compete," said Sullivan with a big smile. "He watches every hole he can."

Another day like Saturday for Sullivan, and Naniewicz will be watching his golfing cousin on an even bigger stage at Southern Hills in Tulsa come August.