It Stills Pays to Be Tiger Woods' Pal

A few years ago in 2007, Arjun Atwal was involved in an automobile accident that resulted in the other driver's crash and death.  Ultimately, Atwal recovered from the accusation and no charges were pressed against him.  Three years later, Atwal had earned part-time playing privileges on this year's PGA Tour with a minor medical exemption. 

What he didn't have was a spot in the AT&T National this week.  His friend and Isleworth practice buddy Tiger Woods was confused.

"[Tiger] asked me why I wasn’t playing and I said I wasn’t in the field. Last week (Woods) called and said I was in (as a sponsor exemption)," Atwal said after shooting 4-under 66 that left him with a share of the day one lead.  Woods is not officially tournament host this year at the National, but his foundation is the primary beneficiary of the event.

The money isn't an issue for Atwal who, with two starts left in his exemption, has eclipsed the money target he needs to keep status by some $20,000.  Still, it never hurts to have Tiger's cell phone number in your pocket.