Taylor Smith (golfer)

Richard Taylor Smith was an American professional golfer.

Early life and amateur career

Smith was born in Pensacola, Florida but spent most of his life in Waycross, Georgia. He played college golf at Augusta College.

Professional career

Smith played on the Nike Tour and the PGA Tour from 1992 to 1998. His best finish on the Nike Tour was a win at the 1992 Ben Hogan Permian Basin Open. His best finish on the PGA Tour was T-2 at the 1996 Greater Vancouver Open.
At the 1996 Walt Disney World/Oldsmobile Classic on the PGA Tour, Smith had tied Tiger Woods at the end of regulation play and appeared to be heading for a playoff. It was then revealed that Smith's putter had an illegal grip and he was disqualified, giving Woods his second career win. Smith had been informed about his putter on the 9th hole but was allowed to continue playing while he appealed the ruling. The appeal was denied.

Professional wins (7)

U.S. Golf Tour wins (1)

1990 Turtle Classic

Other mini-tour wins (5)

1988 Walden Lake CC
1989 Deltona Hills CC
1990 Timacuan CC
1991 West Orange CC
1993 Palisades CC