Bob Niger's magical 2025 season isn't over just yet.
On Wednesday, the 65-year-old Niger, who recently sewed up 2024-25 NCGA Super Senior Player of the Year honors, captured his first California Golf Association title, winning the 34th annual California Senior Amateur Championship at The Valley Club at Montecito. Niger defeated Bobby Schaeffer on the first hole of a sudden-death playoff after the two finished regulation tied at 11-under 205.
Coming into the event, Niger had been on a roll. Since joining the NCGA ranks following being reinstated as an amateur, Niger had rung up seven wins and five runners-ups. His latest victory had been at the NCGA Super Senior Championship at Bayonet GC in Seaside.
During regulation, Niger carded a final round 68. Schaeffer carded a 67. Third place went to former NCGA champion Mike Rowley at 208 after a final round 67.
"It was a long week," Niger said. "It was a little stressful today but it was a great week and it was a really nice event."
The title was decided on the par-5 15th hole. Niger and Schaffer both hit beautiful drives.
Niger was around 251 yards out for his second shot. He pulled out his 3-wood for his second shot and was able to get it on in two as the ball rolled right onto the middle of the green.
Schaeffer missed the green, which opened the door for the Sacramento native. In regulation, Niger had made eagle on the same hole, something that he had not forgotten.
"I almost had the same putt that I did in regulation," Niger said. "I was further away in the playoff but I was able to make this one."
Niger has won six career NCGA wins & two career NCGA senior titles. However, he had never won a California Amateur event until Wednesday arrived.
As a bonus, Niger will have an exemption into the next 10 California Senior Amateurs and a spot in 2026 U.S. Senior Open Final Qualifying.
It truly has been a magical year for Niger.
"It has been a great year and I have had a great time," Niger said. "This was definitely the cherry on top and to win a State Am, I am really pleased to have done that."
