PERSONAL
In 2002, inducted into Phoenix Open Hall of Fame, becoming only the 15th person and sixth golfer put into the Hall, which was established in 1985. Other golfers include Arnold Palmer, Gene Littler, Byron Nelson, Ben Hogan and Ken Venturi.
Father was bowling center proprietor in Nebraska. At age 13, Mark had a 185 average. Now has a 205 average and wife, Brenda, has a 150 average. The pair have two lanes in their home called The Lanes of Villa Nahar and they were heavily involved in a 2010 charity initiative dubbed Shake, Rattle and Bowl, a PGA TOUR Wives' fundraiser held in conjunction with The Honda Classic.
Concentrated on golf when family moved from Nebraska to Florida. Played as many as 72 holes a day during the summer months.
Owns three dogs, Miss Ellie (dalmatian-beagle mix), Brutus Buckeye (Jack Russell terrier) and Mollie (white boxer).
Drives to many events in a motorhome purchased late in the 2011 season.
Once played a round of golf with Jack Nicklaus at age 14 at Lost Tree GC. Says he was so excited he didn't fall asleep the night before.
His first hole-in-one came at age 18 at the University GC at the University of Florida. Says it was a 6-iron from 175 yards into the wind and sun and it flew in.
Favorite golf course is Sandhills in Nebraska.