Forty-eight teams battled it out for the top spot in this year’s E-Z-GO Pro-Pro at Vestavia Country Club with Jordan DeBonis and Brad Story shooting 12-under-par 59 to win, two strokes ahead of Neil Thompson and Paul Whitman who finished 10-under 61.
The winning duo received travel duffel bags from Stitch Golf embroidered with “E-Z-GO Pro-Pro Champion” to commemorate their victory.
Holes No. 1 through 6 were Scramble, Alternate Shot for holes 7 through 12, and Best Ball for holes 13 through 18.
DeBonis/Story made one eagle and 10 birdies, the most of the day, and rounded out their scorecard with seven pars and no bogeys. Brian Corn/Brian Richards and Noah Martino/Cam Page each had nine birdies. Martino/Page, Steve Cutler/Kyle Sullivan, and Corn/Richards shot 8-under-par 63 to tie for third.
Derek Sewell/Connor Slane shot 7-under-par 64 for sixth. Robbie Blackwell/Ty Zimmerman, Michael Caune/Cole Henry, John Racciatti/Dylan Moncus shot 6-under 65 to tie for seventh.
Following play, players enjoyed lunch and time to socialize before announcing the winners and the presentation of the Stitch Golf duffel bags.
Thank you to our host PGA of America Professionals, Elliott Jones and Ryan McLean, and everyone at Vestavia C. C. for hosting this event. We would also like to thank the E-Z-GO team of Michael Howell and David Tennant for supporting the Section. —Anna Catherine Alderman
Poipu Bay Resort’s team of Chad Dusenberry and Chasen Bahouth claimed the top honors at the Golf Concepts Pro-Pro Championship played at the beautiful Ocean Course at Hokuala on the island of Kauai. They carded a 10-under-par score to edge the teams of Freestone/Neider and Ignam/Kim by a single stroke. They collected $2,000 for their fine play.
Mahalo to Jay Hinazumi of Golf Concepts and the Ocean Course at Hokuala for their sponsorship for this popular tournament.
••••••
The 2024 PGA Junior Championship qualifier was held at the Wailua Golf Course on Kauai. Christopher Chung-Salem shot a 3-under-par 141 to claim medalist honors in the Boys Division. Jake Otani secured the final spot with a 142 total.
In the Girls Division, Kate Nakaoka and Ava Cepeda qualified for the championship. Nakaoka carded a 9-under-par 137, while Cepeda shot a fine 139 total. Congratulations to all of the qualifiers and good luck at the national tournament.
The 2024 Aloha Section Junior Championship was contested at the Wailua Golf Course on Kauai. The winners are as follows:
Boys 13-15: Noah Miyazono
Girls 13-15: Arianna Bell
Boys 16-18: Christopher Chung-Salem
Girls 16-18: Kate Nakaoka
A huge mahalo goes out to Wailua Golf Course for hosting this memorable junior golf championship. The Aloha Section Junior Golf Championship is just one of the many events that the Aloha Section PGA Foundation conducts throughout the year. —Lance Taketa, PGA
Supported by Fire Maker Brewing Company, Carolinas PGA of America Professionals and amateurs teed it up at Starmount Forest Country Club for the 60th North Carolina Open.
After Round 1, Starmount Forest C.C. PGA of America Head Golf Professional Savio Nazareth; UNC Finley Golf Club PGA; of America Teaching Professional Leslie Cloots, PGA, and 2023 Carolinas Open winner Noah Connor (amateur) wrapped up at 5-under 66 for a three-way tie for first place. These very impressive rounds were highlighted by six birdies and a bogey-free back nine for Nazareth, a chip-in eagle on the par 5 No. 18 for Cloots, and a bogey-free round for Connor.
As Round 2 came to a close, Connor emerged as the favorite after an incredible round of 64 (7-under), putting his two-day total at 12-under heading into the final round. Assistant Professional at The Reserve at Lake Keowee, Alastair Tidcombe, PGA, made a massive leap up to second place, climbing 11 spots after shooting a 67 (4-under) to complete his second day. Behind Connor and Tidcombe was a four-way tie for third place between Nazareth, Assistant Professional Seth Sweet, Assistant Professional Allen Caldwell, and amateur Tyler Jones at 5-under.
The final round of the 60th North Carolina Open wrapped up with Connor lifting the trophy in victory, finishing at
11-under for the tournament. Nazareth carded birdies on four of the last five holes, finishing the tournament as the Low Professional and in second place overall at 8-under. The rest of the top five consisted of a three-way tie for third place at 6-under between Assistant Professional Nick Rencis, Aaron Black, PGA, and amateur Alex Heffner. —Zach Strohecker
Eric Manning (Elm Tree Golf Course) carded a 4-under-par 138 to capture the 2024 Central New York PGA Stroke Play Championship on June 3 at Soaring Eagles Golf Club in Horseheads.
Manning fired a 4-under-par 67 followed by an even-par 71 in the one-day, 36-hole event. The Stroke Play Championship is one of the CNY PGA’s major tournaments.
Manning defeated defending champion Mark Tucker (Cazenovia Country Club) by two strokes for the win. Tucker shot rounds of 71 and 69 to finish the tournament at 2-under 140.
There was a three-way tie for third place at 1-under 141 between Dennis Colligan (Cazenovia Golf Club), Tim Hume (McConnellsville Golf Club) and Michael Deuel (En-Joie Golf Club).
A week later, Manning edged Jonny Petrin by one stroke to win the Empire Golf Cars Pro-Am/Pro-Officer Tournament held June 10 at Yahnundasis Golf Club in New Hartford.
Manning carded a 1-under-par 70 with five birdies, including three in a row on holes 13, 14 and 15. Petrin (Lakeshore 1860) finished at even-par 71.
Twenty-eight teams competed in the PGA REACH CNY Pro-Am Tournament on May 28 at Bellevue Country Club.
Many tournament competitors were military Veterans, including Eric Schuster, who is our Section’s PGA HOPE Ambassador. Half of the money raised at this year’s event will benefit PGA REACH CNY, with PGA HOPE being among those programs.
PGA HOPE CNY continues to expand with eight programs throughout the Section, including: Turning Stone Resort Casino (Ryan McGinnis), Binghamton Country Club (Rick Keding), Tioga Downs Golf Club (Jason Harris), WaNoa Golf Club (Mel Baum), Oswego Country Club (Michael Hogan, Jon Fowler, Will Weimer), Southern Tier/Corning Country Club (Matt Jaynes, Steve Volpicelli), Dick’s House of Sports Vestal (Ryan Evans). —Fran Piraino
The PGA REACH Colorado Foundation launched a new fundraising initiative for 2024 called Teach Fore REACH.
Originally piloted in 2023 by PGA of America Golf Professional Jeramy Curry, the initiative has seen great success. During the week of June 9-15, dedicated Colorado PGA of America Golf Professionals were asked to donate a portion of proceeds, at their discretion, from their teaching programs to support the PGA REACH Colorado Foundation. All donations were allocated directly to programming that creates an even larger impact for the community served by the Foundation.
The week was supported by valuable partner Stitch Golf, which provided shirts for instructors.
Thank you to the following individuals who contributed to the Colorado PGA’s Teach Fore REACH week:
Together, these individuals helped raise more than $15,000 for the PGA REACH Colorado Foundation.
In 2023, the PGA REACH Colorado Foundation served over 15,000 individuals throughout Colorado, Wyoming and South Dakota. With the support of the individuals listed previously, the Foundation hopes to serve even more in 2024 and beyond. —Holly Champion, PGA
The 93rd Connecticut PGA Championship was played on June 3-4 at Black Hall Club and Adam Rainaud of New Canaan Country Club (Metropolitan Section) earned his fourth victory in the Championship. Rainaud battled to finish 2-under-par and fend off runner-up Terry Slater of Race Brook Country Club by two strokes.
For Rainaud, the Black Hall Club is where he spent his first six seasons in the business, and he credits Head Professional Andrew Campbell for molding him into the professional he is today.
The Connecticut Section PGA Foundation Charity Classic was a resounding success in its new May date. A full field of 144 players raised over $45,000 at Hartford Golf Club to help support the Foundation’s pillars of youth golf, military Veterans, special needs golfers, and diverse populations.
The Walter Lowell PGA Tournament was conducted at Race Brook Country Club and won by Christopher Tallman of GREATHORSE. Played as a Modified Stableford, Tallman amassed a total of 36 points in his dominant victory. His round of 63 was one stroke shy of the course record. Host Professional Terry Slater and Jan Wivestad of Cris Cote’s School of Golf tied for second.
Named in honor of former Section President and 1978 Golf Professional of the Year Walter Lowell, the event is annual member favorite. In addition to the tournament, the event recognizes the annual recipient of the Walter Lowell Public Golf Course Distinguished Service Award. Lowell and his family owned Canton Public Golf Course for many years, and were major advocates of making golf accessible to all.
Timberlin Golf Club in Berlin, Connecticut, was honored prior to play as this year’s recipient of the award. —Ted Pisk
The Section hosted Stroke Play #2 at Gateway National Golf Links June 3. Miquel Romera Marco (Old Warson C.C.) beat out Blake Sharamitaro (Family Golf & Learning Center) for the title in a three-hole playoff for the Regular Division. Jimmy Bals (Forest Hills C.C.) and Bob Gaus (Family Golf) tied in the Senior age group, while the latter also earned the Super Senior trophy. Emily Van Rie (Quincy C.C.) took home the Ladies’ title.
The following week, the fun went to Spencer T. Olin Golf Course for the Stroke Play #3 event. Will Postlethwaite (Norwood Hills C.C.) won the Regular and Assistants Division. Michael Tucker (Bellerive C.C.) outlasted Jeff Whitfield (The Quarry at Crystal Springs) in the Senior age group, but Whitfield did walk away with the Super Senior bragging rights.
The Sterling Cup Team Championship took place at Jefferson City Country Club on June 17. Co-workers Brett Moomey and Chris Ferris (Algonquin G.C.) used a chip-in by Moomey on the first playoff hole to steal the title away from Jim Davey (Dalhousie G.C.) and Brian Fogt (Bellerive C.C.).
Sarah Hyten and Harper Ackermann earned Junior PGA Championship bids on June 5 at Gateway National.
Hyten led the Girls’ 15-18 division after Day 1. She stayed strong through the second round, finishing two strokes ahead of the next contestant. In the Boys’ 16-18 division, Ackermann finished Day 1 tied for the lead. After Round 2, he found himself in a six-hole playoff, eventually coming out on top. Congratulations, Sarah and Harper.
The Gateway PGA Section would like to congratulate Marvin Herrod (Sunset C.C.) on graduating from PGA LEAD as a member of the eighth cohort. He is the third Section representative since the program’s inception in 2016.
PGA of America Life Member Mark Anderson of Brunswick Country Club held off five others at the Yamaha Georgia Senior Open presented by Wilson Golf. The 42nd playing of the tournament took place at Chattahoochee Golf Club in Gainesville on June 3-4. After recording a 1-over-par 73 in Round 1 and down by two, Anderson fired a 2-under 70 to clinch the title.
What an impressive finish to the Georgia PGA Junior Championship at Doublegate Country Club on June 4-6. Mary Miller cruised to a nine-shot victory as she carded 68-72-68 for an 8-under total for the three days to repeat as the Girls Overall Champion. Camryn Coffield was runner-up after starting the final round two shots back from Miller.
Mackinnley Yarbrough defeated Trace Carter in a one-hole playoff to win the Overall Boys Division. Yarbrough had the low Round of the tournament during round 1 as he carded a 7-under 65 and finished the tournament at 4-under. All four went on to represent the Georgia Section in the Junior PGA Championships on July 30-Aug. 2 at Congressional Country Club in Maryland.
Luke James, PGA of America Director of Golf at Royal Lakes Golf & Country Club, won the 90th playing of the Yamaha Atlanta Open presented by Audi Atlanta and Mizuno USA on June 11 at The Standard Club in Johns Creek. James shot rounds of 75-66 for a 3-under-par total to claim his first Georgia PGA Section major championship. As the dust settled, four players ended at 3-under to force a playoff. James finally prevailed on the sixth playoff hole. —Michael Rakowski
The 11th annual Gulf States PGA Yamaha 3-Pro crowned its champions for 2024 at Whisper Lake Country Club on May 6. Kyle Ramey (Canebrake Country Club), Allan Martel (Grand Bear Golf Course) and Brad Thornton (Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College) took the honors with a score of 15-under 49.
Jacob Ross (The Country Club of Jackson), Ronny Ross (Clear Creek Golf Course), Joseph Dendy (Clear Creek Golf Course), Dustin Baker (Tchefuncta Country Club), Colton Ryan (Tchefuncta Country Club), Kevin Landry (Webb Memorial Golf Course), David Marchand (Metairie Country Club), Jake Narro (Oak Knoll Country Club), and Reed Hughes from Senatobia, Mississippi, all tied for second place at 14-under 50. The field consisted of 15 teams.
The 18-hole event concluded with a six-hole, three-person scramble sponsored by Yamaha showcasing the par-3 course, “The Loop,” at Whisper Lake Country Club. Chris Jester, Colton Dunaway and Drew Belt won the shootout at 2-under.
Ramey later remarked, “We all added in at different times. If someone was struggling, the other person would step up to help the team.” Martel added, “The course was perfect. It was a little bit windy, but it was a lot of fun for this format.”
The Gulf States PGA would like to thank title sponsors Jeff Jungers and Shannon Caverly, PGA, of Yamaha. We would also like to thank Sam McCarroll of Under Armour and Dynamic Brands for sponsoring this event. Finally, the Gulf States wishes to thank PGA Head Golf Professional Kent Smith, Golf Course Superintendent Britt Pollock and the entire staff and membership at Whisper Lake Country Club for making this event possible. —Cody Clark, PGA
Kevin Flack (Mauh-Nah-Tee-See Country Club) won the National Car Rental Illinois Assistant PGA Professional Championship on June 10 at Mauh-Nah-Tee-See Country Club. Flack went wire-to-wire to win his fourth Illinois Assistant PGA Professional title in six years (2019, 2021, 2022, 2024).
Flack will be joined by Kevin Healy (Beverly Country Club) and Matthew Rion (Briarwood Country Club) at the National Car Rental Assistant PGA Professional Championship at the PGA Golf Club on Nov. 14-17.
“The course was in great shape today. Our superintendent did a great job getting the course ready,” said Flack. “The course was fast and firm, so we had to be a little careful out there. If you were above the hole you could find yourself in some trouble. I managed to plot my way around the course pretty well and make some birdies when I could. I got off to a good start in the first round and just tried to stay steady the rest of the way.”
David Paeglow (DeKalb, Illinois) won the 2024 XXIO Illinois Senior Open Championship on June 18 at Hawthorn Woods Country Club. Paeglow carded matching rounds of 1-under-par 71 for a tournament total of 2-under-par 142. Paeglow completed the tournament as the only player under par en route to his second Illinois Senior Open Championship in five years (he also won in 2020).
“It was difficult out here. Both days were really tough,” said Paeglow. “The wind picked up in the afternoon today and the course got really firm. It was quite a challenge.
“I just kept hanging in there and tried to make par as much as possible and throw in a couple of birdies when I could. I just wanted to par in at the end and, fortunately, it was enough to win.”
The XXIO Illinois Senior Open marked the first Illinois PGA Championship to be contested at Hawthorn Woods Country Club in nine years. Hawthorn Woods played host to the Illinois Open five times (2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2015), with the last time serving as the sister course to Royal Melbourne. Hawthorn Woods proved to survive the test of time. —Kevin Quinn
Indiana Golf celebrated a major milestone with a groundbreaking ceremony at Fort Benjamin Harrison in Lawrence on June 5, marking their transition from Franklin, where they had been headquartered since 1993. This move, initiated in 2017, is backed by a successful capital campaign that has raised $5.6 million of the $6.5 million goal.
Julia Potter-Bobb, Indiana Golf’s Director of Business Operations and Membership, was present at the ceremony. Her connection to Indiana Golf is deeply personal, having participated in the groundbreaking of the Gongaware Junior Golf Academy in Franklin over 25 years ago.
Reflecting on the ceremony, Julia expressed a sense of full-circle accomplishment. “To be part of it again, now as an adult and working for such a great organization, feels incredibly fulfilling,” she explained. “The passion I had for the game at 9 or 10 years old is still very much alive today.”
Potter-Bobb’s journey with Indiana Golf reflects her enduring commitment to the sport and community. Over the past decade, she has balanced her career, tournament schedule and personal life, significantly influencing the sport by creating opportunities for women and expanding the organization’s reach.
The new facility will feature an interactive Hall of Fame, administrative offices, and dedicated spaces for programs like PGA HOPE and First Tee. Julia emphasized, “Having a home base for these programs will allow us to grow and reach more people. It’s an exciting step forward for Indiana Golf.”
Indiana Golf’s new headquarters promises to be a hub of growth and development for the sport in the state, with leaders like Potter-Bobb steering its future. —Renee Adam
The Iowa PGA completed the 44th annual Iowa PGA Junior Golf Academy on June 9-13. John Bermel, Head PGA of America Professional at Pheasant Ridge G.C. and Head Coach of the men and women’s golf teams at the University of Northern Iowa, has been the lead instructor for the academy for more than 28 years. The Iowa PGA Junior Golf Academy also utilizes the men and women PGA of America Professionals of the Iowa Section as instructors for the students.
The Iowa PGA recognizes the 11th year of the national Drive, Chip and Putt program sponsored the Masters foundation, the USGA and the PGA of America. The Iowa Section along with all other 41 PGA of America Sections are participating in 2024. The Iowa PGA hosted 21 local qualifiers for the national program and two sub-regional sites. —Stephanie Mason
The Kentucky PGA Junior Tour headed to Richmond, Kentucky, in May for the 2024 Girls and Boys Junior PGA Championships. Competing at The University Club of Arlington, Athena Singh delivered a show-stopping performance at the Girls Junior PGA, finishing the tournament at 5-under, a whopping nine strokes ahead of second place.
Three other shining stars fought for a spot on the podium, going neck and neck for the entirety of the second round. Keira Yun, Isabella Christy and Kylah Lunsford ended the day tied at plus-4, leading to a playoff to decide which player would qualify for the national PGA Junior Championship alongside Singh. The playoff declared Lunsford the official second-place finisher, granting her a qualifying spot. Singh and Lunsford advance to Congressional Country Club in Bethesda, Maryland, in late July to compete at the national PGA Junior Championship.
The 2024 Kentucky Boys Junior PGA Championship concluded on May 20 at Gibson Bay Golf Course. Sam Guest walked away as the champion after competing in a playoff against Brody Alexander. Both boys finished with a score of 1-under after a rigorous two days of play, with Sam victorious with a birdie on the first playoff hole.
Guest did not begin Round 2 at the top of the leaderboard, but he never took his eyes off the prize. He came out swinging on Thursday, securing five birdies on Day 2 after recording only one the day before. Guest and Alexander also advanced to Maryland to compete at the national Boys PGA Junior Championship.
The Kentucky PGA Junior Tour extends its thanks to the staff of both host courses for two fantastic events! —Madalyn Dudley
The 2024 Polo Head Professional Championship and Met PGA Women’s Championship sponsored by Polo Ralph Lauren and XXIO were held at Garden City Country Club in Garden City, New York. Head Golf Professional John Kuntz and his staff, along with Superintendent Russ MacPhail and General Manager Az-dine Boucetta, welcomed two very competitive and decorated fields for two days of stroke play competition.
In his first year as a Head Professional, Mike Ballo Jr. of Tamarack Country Club earned a gritty win at the 2024 Polo Met PGA Head Professional Championship. The start of final round play saw a see-saw battle between Ballo and two-time Head Professional Champion Danny Balin of Fresh Meadow Club. After a double on the 11th hole, Ballo managed five birdies in a row to gain a two-shot lead on Balin that would inevitably lead to him taking home the William A. Mitchell Trophy.
After returning from KitchenAid Senior PGA Championship play in Michigan — where he earned Low PGA of America Club Professional honors with a T-4 finish — Jason Caron would continue his success by earning the top spot in the Senior Division at 1-under-par.
Southampton Golf Club Assistant Professional Cindy LaCrosse had her foot on the gas pedal in final-round play at the Met PGA Women’s Championship. With a final-round 68 highlighted by four birdies, LaCrosse hoisted the Championship hardware for the first time in her career. Barbara Shipley of Bonnie Briar Country Club finished atop the Senior Division leaderboard with a two-day total of 154.
Thank you to Polo Ralph Lauren for their long-tenured title sponsorship of these two great events. We appreciate all the support they have shown our Section Professionals over the years. —Emily Meier
Eric Lilleboe of Okemos kept the lead through the final three rounds and won the Hall Financial Michigan Open Championship June 13 at Oakland University Golf & Learning Center in Rochester.
It was the second time the 36-year-old PGA Tour Americas player won the coveted 107-year-old state title. He also won in 2019 and will have his name inscribed on the James D. Standish Trophy for the second time. Lilleboe did it by shooting a closing 1-over 72 in wind-whipped conditions on the Katke-Cousins Course, and finished with a 6-under 278 total, four shots clear of the field to earn the $15,000 first-place check.
Tyler Copp of Ann Arbor, a PGA Tour Americas player who led after the first round, made birdie on the par-5 18th hole to end up in second place alone. He shot 73 for a 2-under 282. He earned $10,000. Six golfers tied at 1-under 283.
Jeff Cuzzort, the Golf Services Manager at Grosse Ile Golf & Country Club and the 2015 Michigan Open Champion, jumped up several spots with a final-round 4-under 68, the lowest round of the day, to finish at 283.
The others who impressed included two-time Michigan Open Champion Jake Kneen, a graduate assistant coach at Oakland University who shot 74 to close; new professional Nick Krueger of Spring Lake, who shot 74; new professional and former Oakland University golfer Colin Sikkenga of Kalamazoo, who shot 70; Zach Robbins, a mini-tour professional from Grand Rapids, who shot 74; and the low amateur for the championship, Joe Montpas of Flushing, who shot 71.
Lilleboe’s lead was trimmed to two strokes a few times during the final round, but even after he made a double-bogey to start the back nine, he still managed to have a three-shot lead as the others chasing him had issues with the whipping winds and fast greens, too.
Eric, who headed to British Columbia and the North America part of the PGA Tour Americas following the Hall Financial Michigan Open Championship, said it means a lot for him going forward with his 12-year professional touring career.
A big thanks to our presenting sponsor, Hall Financial, along with our supporting sponsors: Make the Turn, Turbo Insurance, Harbor Title Agency and Fox Motors. Lunch was provided each day courtesy of Patti Finnegan’s Pub & Grille at Oakland University. —Diane Lazaros
The MAPGA recently crowned its Chapter Champions. In the Northern Chapter, Jon Moles (Worthington Manor) won the Chapter Championship held at Suburban Club. Sean English (Elkridge Club) won the Senior Division with a 1-over 71. In the Central Chapter, Ian McConnell (C.C. of Fairfax) won with a 3-under-par 67 at TPC Potomac. Jim Estes (Jim Estes Golf) took the Senior Division at 1-over 73. And in the Southern Chapter, Kyle Fuller (C.C. of Virginia) shot a scorching 8-under-par 64 to win the Southern Chapter Championship at Williamsburg National G.C. Jimmy Flippen Jr. (Waterfront C.C.) won the Senior Division at 1-under 71.
Congratulations to the team of Matt Summers and amateur partner Sean Flanigan for winning the MAPGA Pro-Scratch presented by Cleveland/Srixon.
Summers is the Director of Golf at the host facility, Bulle Rock G.C. The team had 11 birdies against one bogey in the Stableford Team Competition, and Summers shot a 65 on his own ball to win the Professional Regular Division.
A recurring donation by Tina and Wally Uihlein has enabled the MAPGA Scholarship Foundation to create the Tony Marlowe Junior Scholarships in honor of Tina’s late father, MAPGA Hall of Fame Class of 2002 Inductee Tony Marlowe. This scholarship awards $10,000 per year for four years to junior golfers based on academic performance, extracurricular activities and on-course etiquette.
This year’s winners are Xavier Francois from Bowie, Maryland, who will be attending the University of Maryland, and Felicity Chen from Reston, Virginia, who will be attending William & Mary. Congratulations to Xavier and Felicity! —Jon Guhl
A couple weeks following the Pro Open 2, we held our Pro Open 3 at Mules National Golf Club in Warrensburg, Missouri. In the Pro Open 3, we had 30 players competing for a chance to be our champion. The course was in amazing shape and we could not have asked for better weather conditions.
Jeff Sedorcek took home the victory with a final score of 6-under 66. In second place was Larry Hadden with a final score of 4-under 68. Overall, we want to extend a huge thank you to Ron Kosmatka and the entire team at Mules National for hosting us and ensuring that the tournament ran smoothly as always, as well as our tournament sponsor John Sheridan with Under Armour.
Our 2024 Midwest PGA HOPE sessions have conducted five graduations so far. These graduations have taken place at Drumm Farm, St. Andrews, Rivercut, Firekeeper and Jess Hansen Academy. Between all of those locations, we have had a total of 54 graduates complete the program. We are very excited about the growth of the HOPE Program and look forward to our Fall Series.
Finally, we want to give a big thank you to Deb Richard and her continued work with the HOPE graduates and ensuring that all questions they have are answered, along with making sure they feel supported throughout their time in the program. And thanks, too, to the Kansas City Area Toyota Dealers for their continued support of PGA HOPE and the Foundation. —Bennett Colwell
The 2024 Holes Fore HOPE/ Minnesota PGA Associate Scholarships have been awarded. Congratulations to the three award winners:
The Holes Fore HOPE/Minnesota PGA Associate Scholarship program is designed to award scholarships to Associates of the Minnesota Section of the PGA of America. Holes Fore HOPE has committed funds to help our Section Associates offset the cost of the PGA of America Associate Program. Special thanks to Craig Pratt and everyone at Holes Fore HOPE for their generous support! Congratulations!
Please consider donating a round of golf to the Holes Fore HOPE Program to continue to support efforts like these, helping members within our own Section. Whether public, private or semi-private, every round helps contribute to an incredible cause!
Congratulations to the Champions of the 2024 Minnesota PGA Foundation Pro-Am presented by Blaze Credit Union:
And thanks so much to everyone who participated in this year’s event! Thank you to Blaze Credit Union for being our presenting partner. Special thanks to Head Golf Professional Nick Sage, PGA; General Manager Taybin Tushaus, PGA; Course Superintendent Mike Paape, MGCSA; and the staff at Southview Country Club for hosting once again.
See you on the course; there is a lot more golf to be played in 2024! —Leah Herzog
PGA REACH Nebraska, the charitable arm of the Nebraska PGA Section gears up for its third year as “Community Partner” of the Pinnacle Bank Championship, presented by Aetna. The annual Korn Ferry Tour (KFT) event returns to Omaha on Aug. 8-11, and the Nebraska PGA Section Foundation will once again be in the spotlight.
In 2023, PGA REACH Nebraska highlighted all three of their pillars through the KFT event. The 2023 Nebraska PGA Jr. League Section Championship was hosted at The Club at Indian Creek’s (host of the Pinnacle Bank Championship) executive nine-hole course highlighting the Youth pillar.
The Military pillar of PGA REACH Nebraska is represented by the PGA HOPE program that continues to blow up across the Section. In 2023, PGA HOPE Nebraska was featured all week long, beginning with a range session with Korn Ferry Tour Professionals speaking and working with several HOPE graduates. In addition, Veterans were invited out to catch the action under a shaded tent with food and drinks off the No. 9 green.
Lastly, PGA REACH Nebraska’s Diversity & Inclusion pillar was highlighted in 2023 through the Clubs FORE Youth Program. Four high school girls golf teams attended a clinic with Korn Ferry Tour Professionals Patrick Welch and Scott Gutschewski before they were surprised with brand new sets of Callaway golf clubs and push carts.
PGA REACH Nebraska is actively working on the final touches of its partnership for the 2024 tournament, and its involvement will take another step forward this month. —Brett Renner
The New England PGA and PGA REACH New England, the charitable arm of the NEPGA, are excited to announce the fourth annual REACH Classic will be held on Oct. 7 at Weston Golf Club.
The REACH Classic is PGA REACH New England’s sole golf tournament fundraiser. This tournament pulls together golfers who believe in our mission of positively impacting lives through the game of golf under three philanthropic pillars: Diversity & Inclusion, Military and Youth Development.
The tournament is open to all players – professionals and amateurs. Individuals can sign up as a single player, twosome, threesome or foursome. The event will include golf, lunch, dinner, a silent auction, tee gifts, plus gross and net prizes. Registration will begin at 11 a.m. and lunch will be served before the shotgun start at 1 p.m.
“We are excited to welcome all levels of golfers to the 2024 REACH Classic at Weston Golf Club,” says PGA REACH New England Director Michael Packard, PGA. “Weston Golf Club will offer an elevated experience for our participants and the day promises to be a great way to come together to help grow the game we all love.”
PGA REACH New England is dedicated to impacting lives through the game of golf. Participating in the fourth annual REACH Classic helps improve the lives of thousands of children, military Veterans and their families, as well as diverse populations through golf programs across New England each year.
The 2024 REACH Classic is presented by Gorton & Company and supported by Tournament Solutions. —Lauren Neilan
The New Jersey Golf Foundation, the charitable arm of the New Jersey Section, was quite busy this past winter and spring with program planning, including a quickly growing PGA HOPE schedule, which now covers every county in the New Jersey Section.
These programs are made possible because of the support provided by some of the major fundraising events including the recent seventh annual Mixed Stix Pro-Am at Fiddler’s Elbow Country Club, and the upcoming 18th annual Golf Classic at Baltusrol Golf Club.
The Golf Classic, in particular, is a unique opportunity for corporate partners and foundation supporters to play the Championship Lower Course at historic Baltusrol Golf Club.
The funds raised from these events help support the NJ Golf Foundation’s three pillars: Youth, Military and Special Needs. With a focus on these three core pillars, the NJGF’s mission is to positively impact lives and communities through the game of golf.
As the Foundation celebrates its 20th anniversary this year, events like these and many more promise to be some of the most successful fundraising efforts yet! —Ethan Shea
The field for the 2024 KitchenAid Senior PGA Championship at Harbor Shores in Michigan included two North Florida PGA of America Members, Rod Perry and Jason Hrynkiw. This followed on the heels of having another NFPGA Member, John Somers, compete at the 2024 PGA Championship at Valhalla.
Jason put together a solid second round with a score of three-over 74, but was not able to make the cut for the weekend. Rod began the championship by shooting 5-over 76 in Round 1 and needed to put together a good score in the second round to make the cut. He did just that by shooting an impressive bogey-free, 4-under 67 in Round 2 and making the cut! Bogey-free during any round is outstanding; putting a round like that together in a major championship showed the caliber of Rod’s game. The weekend saw him finish strong in the final round with a score of 1-over 72 and T77 finish. Rod’s performance helped him earn an exemption into the 2024 Senior PGA Professional Championship at Sunriver Resort in Oregon in late September.
Competing at the highest level is something we are immensely proud of here in the NFPGA, and we extend our congratulations to both Rod and Jason for their play in the 2024 KitchenAid Senior PGA Championship! —Brandon Roll, PGA
The Northeastern New York Section of the PGA of America has announced the Class of 2024 NENY PGA Special Award recipients. A big congratulations to all of our Section Professionals who won an award for their outstanding work:
The 16th annual “The Langley, A Tribute to Legends” honors Ken Morton Sr., PGA of America Member Life Member and NCPGA Hall of Fame Inductee; and legendary PGA TOUR Coach Butch Harmon. The festivities will be hosted by PGA TOUR celebrity Peter Jacobsen.
Named after former PGA Head Golf Professional Jim Langley of Cypress Point Club, The Langley, celebrated at Pebble Beach Resorts Aug. 12-13, is the NCPGA Foundation’s premier charitable fundraising event designed to honor the game’s legends as proceeds are raised for PGA HOPE Northern California and the Jim Langley Scholarship Fund.
Caesars Entertainment returns as the Title Sponsor of The Langley, with recognition by the Carano family of the military service from their patriarch Mr. Don Carano, who served as an Officer in the United States Army.
Caesars Senior Vice President of Player Development Chase Stigall, PGA, said “Caesars Entertainment and the Carano family are honored to support such a prestigious event as The Langley. PGA HOPE and the Langley Scholarship Fund programs are empowered to make a meaningful impact on the lives of Veterans through PGA HOPE and aspiring young golfers through the Jim Langley Scholarship Fund. Together, we are forging a brighter future for the golf community and beyond.”
NBC Universal is the supporting Media Sponsor through their divisions KNTV and NBC Sports Bay Area. Chevron continues with support of the Chevron-Langley Veteran Scholarship.
To date, PGA HOPE Northern California has served over 2,000 military Veterans, with instruction programs at 25 locations twice a year.
Congratulations to the winners of the 2024 Chris Thomas Associate Scholarship Award: Howard Oliver of Elevate Academy ($2,500), Michael Conley of Blackhawk Country Club ($500) and Julius Arterberry of Lake Merced Golf Club ($500). Award funds help with PGA PGM education and expenses. Well done, Howard, Michael and Julius! —Suzy Schneider
For PGA Life Member and former Lakewood Country Club Head Professional Tom Waitrovich, the shift from replacing divots and raking dirt on a golf course to a baseball diamond was a seamless one.
Tom’s connection to the Cleveland Guardians (formerly the Indians) dates to 1994 when he noticed a familiar name in a newspaper article he read during the Major League Baseball strike. The name was Brandon Khoenke, an old high school friend who had become Cleveland’s head groundskeeper. Intrigued by the prospect of reconnecting, Tom reached out, leading to his working part-time with the Indians’ grounds crew from 1997 to 2001.
Their friendship endured, and following his retirement from Lakewood in 2021, Tom returned to the Guardians. He now works over half the games held at Progressive Field each season. On game days, Tom arrives at the ballpark at 4 p.m. for a 6:40 game. His duties include stenciling sponsor logos onto the pitching mound, watering the infield and warning track, repairing divots, removing batting cage equipment, and tarping the field if necessary. During the game, he works in the bullpen, keeping the mounds clean and ready in between pitchers and helps with clean-up after the games.
One of Tom’s most vivid memories is from 1997, when a gust of wind lifted him and the edge of a tarp he was holding off the ground during batting practice during Game 4 of the World Series. Over six feet off the ground, Tom had to let go and toppled to the ground, a memory that he and his co-workers will never forget. For Tom, the therapeutic nature of preparing the field is akin to his previous role in golf.
“Like being a head golf professional, being on this team is therapeutic. There is a certain sense of accomplishment getting ready for every game and making that field look perfect,” explains Waitrovich. —Danielle Monas
Maddie Szeryk claimed the Destination Grapevine Texas Women’s Open by one stroke at Grapevine Golf Course. Szeryk fired rounds of 68-67–135 to finish the championship at 9-under-par. Her victory earned her $17,500, a record for the Texas Women’s Open.
Amateur Thienna Huynh claimed Low Amateur honors with rounds of 67-70–137, 7-under-par, and LPGA Major Champion Angela Stanford won the Ewing Automotive Group Legends of the LPGA Division with rounds of 66-71–137. Stanford earned $13,500 for her victory.
The Destination Grapevine Texas Women’s Open featured a record total purse of $150,000 thanks to the Grapevine Convention and Visitors Bureau, and the Ewing Automotive Group. A total of $75,000 was designated for the 24-player Legends of the LPGA Division, while the other $75,000 was for the 132-player Championship Division.
The 2024 Championship was conducted May 29-31 at Grapevine Golf Course and was shortened from 54 holes to 36 after numerous weather delays. Thank you to PGA of America Director of Golf Robert Singletary and PGA of America Head Professional Eric Hunt for hosting this prestigious Championship.
Jarred Jeter, PGA of America Assistant Professional at Midland Country Club, won the Prize Possessions | E-Z-GO Eastern Championship by three strokes at Cedar Crest Golf Course. Jeter finished at 12-under-par after rounds of 64-66–130.
The Senior Division finished with co-champions. Sam Randolph, PGA, Instructor at Mira Vista Country Club, and Vince Jewell, PGA, Instructor at Woodbridge Golf Club, each finished the Championship at 3-under-par 139.
The Prize Possessions | E-Z-GO Eastern Championship was presented by Branded Bills, GolfStatus, GT Golf Supply Co, Levelwear, Nexbelt, the PGA TOUR and THE CJ CUP Byron Nelson.
Thank you to Director of Golf Ira Molayo, PGA, for hosting this Championship. —Margaret Miller
PGA of America Professional Tyler Carlson of Quail Ridge Golf Course won the 98th Muckleshoot Casino Resort Washington Open Invitational at Meridian Valley C.C. by one stroke over Conner Robbins, PGA, of North Shore Golf Course and amateur Johnny Carey from Mill Creek Country Club.
Carlson shot a solid 2-under 70 for the final round after an impressive 66 in the first round, to shoot 8-under total for the tournament. After a great third shot from the fairway to the center of the green on the 36th hole, Carlson’s two-putt secured him the victory.
Low amateur honors went to Johnny Carey, who carded a two-round total of 137 (69-68), placing him tied for second with PGA of America Professional Conner Robbins of North Shore Golf Course.
Carlson (6-under) started his final round two shots ahead of Casey King (4-under) before clinching his win. The tournament was cut short to two rounds with no cut for the event due to bad weather on Tuesday.
In the Muckleshoot Casino Washington Open Pro-Am benefiting Folds of Honor and American Lake Veteran Golf Course, the R.E. Sides Landscaping team lead by David Owens took first place carding a two-round total of 170.3 and a sizzling 45.7-under-par for both days. An impressive $45,000 was raised for Folds of Honor, and an additional $45,000 was raised for American Lake Veterans Golf Course.
This event was made possible by our sponsors, including Muckleshoot Casino Resort, Pelzer Golf Supplies, Donovan Brothers, Annasea Foods Group, R.E. Sides Landscaping, Garmany Golf, Oak Harbor Freight Lines, Hemplers/Isernio’s/Fletchers, Bacardi, Harbor Food Service, adidas, TaylorMade, StrackaLine and the PGA TOUR.
Special thanks to PGA of America Head Professional Adam Englehorn, Superintendent Craig Benson and all the staff at Meridian Valley Country Club for providing a phenomenal venue! We would also like to thank our volunteers, led by Judy Thompson. —Cameron Altmayer
PGA of America Golf Professional John Pillar of C.C. at Woodloch Springs won the 26th Haverford Philadelphia PGA Classic at Sunnybrook G.C. on the third sudden-death playoff hole in front of hundreds of fans.
Pillar’s $100,000 winner’s check is believed to be the largest first-place prize available from any event across the PGA of America’s 41 nationwide Sections.
Pillar turned in a 2-under-par 70 in regulation, good enough to tie fellow PGA Members Braden Shattuck from Rolling Green G.C. and Kyle Early from Waynesborough C.C.
“Winning the Haverford Philadelphia PGA Classic is a life changer, to be honest,” Pillar said during the trophy presentation. “I did not know when I was going to win again. At 57 years old, it’s overwhelming, and I am so grateful.”
Pillar went on to thank the event’s title partner, The Haverford Trust Company; their founder and director George Connell; and Sunnybrook Golf Club and its membership and staff for their dedication to the Philadelphia PGA Section and its nearly 900 PGA of America Professionals.
PGA of America Golf Professional Matt Keller of York Indoor Golf & Training Center and Lancaster Indoor Golf & Training Center has earned PGA Master Professional Status, the highest educational designation a PGA of America Member can obtain.
“Becoming a PGA Master Professional is a huge honor,” said Keller. “Coming from where I started, to reach this point of such an elite group of people, it’s taken a lot of persistence over the years.
“I couldn’t be more thrilled and excited to be a part of this Master Professional group now, and continue to progress my teaching and coaching abilities within the golf industry.”
Keller graduated from the Penn State University PGA Golf Management program in 2003 with a degree in Recreational Park and Management.
He earned a master’s degree from Ohio University in 2012, focusing on sport psychology, long-term athletic development, athlete performance, conditioning, recovery and injury prevention. —Matt Frey, PGA
The 2024 RMSPGA TaylorMade Pro-Pro Shootout — supported by JC Golf Accessories, Bushnell Golf, Rolex and the PGA TOUR — was played May 20-21 at Pinecrest Golf Course in Idaho Falls, Idaho. The team of Garrett Woodin, Assistant Professional at Hilands Golf Club in Billings, Montana and Caleb Trost, Assistant Professional at Laurel (MT) Golf Club, won this event for the first time.
In the Senior Division, Tad Holloway from Timberstone Golf Course in Caldwell, Idaho, and partner Steve Meyerhoeffer from Twin Falls (Idaho) Golf Club, emerged as champions.
The first two rounds of the Shootout were played on May 20, and the formats were a Scramble followed by Four-Ball Stroke Play. The final round was contested May 21, and the format was Modified Alternate Shot.
The Rocky Mountain PGA Section thanks John Johnson, Territory Sales Manager of TaylorMade, for the title sponsorship. Appreciation also goes to supporting sponsors Levelwear and Andy Hollister, PGA; Bushnell Golf and representative Charley Carlson; JC Golf Accessories; Rolex; and the PGA TOUR for supporting this event. The Rocky Mountain Section also thanks host PGA of America Professional Tim Reinke.
The Annual Meeting of the Rocky Mountain Section was held May 19 at the Residence Inn by Marriott in Idaho Falls, Idaho. It was sponsored by PGA National Resort & Spa. The Section Board welcomed Tad Holloway and Griff Jayne as new members. —Vaughn P. Jenkins, PGA
Seminole Golf Club’s Matt Cahill, PGA, and Dakun Chang, PGA, won the South Florida PGA Pro-Assistant presented by Club Car and Global Golf Sales at The Park and Bear Lakes Country Club with a 14-under total.
Cahill, Head Professional, and Chang, Assistant Professional, recorded their second Pro-Assistant title in three years — previously winning the 2022 Pro-Assistant.
“I have a really good partner, so we can just play our game and try to make a few putts. This is an awesome win,” said Cahill.
Cahill and Chang managed to keep a bogey-free score throughout the 36-hole stretch, the only team in the field to do so.
Finishing in second at 13-under was Matt Lucchesi, PGA, and Matt Ceravolo, PGA, of The Loxahatchee Club. In a tie for third at 12-under was Kenny Leech, PGA, and Diego Velasquez, PGA, of Don Law Golf Academy and Robin Boretti, PGA, and Alan Morin, PGA, of The Club at Ibis.
Michael Kartrude, PGA, defeated Justin Hicks, PGA, in a one-hole playoff to win the Fort Lauderdale Open presented by Srixon | Cleveland | Nike at Grande Oaks Golf Club and Lago Mar Country Club.
Kartrude, an Assistant Professional at the Bear’s Club, fired a tournament-low 64 (7-under) in the final round to come back from four shots down and force a playoff with Hicks, a Teaching Professional at Stonebridge Country Club. The playoff lasted just one hole as Katrude made par to claim the title, finishing the two-day Championship at 9-under 70-64–134.
Kartrude previously won the Fort Lauderdale Open in 2020 as an Associate. Now becoming a full Class-A PGA of America Golf Professional in April, Kartrude has successfully won his first event as a Class-A Member.
Domenico Geminiani, PGA, of Old Corkscrew Golf Club; Nick Latimer, PGA, of Trump International Golf Club; and Tyler Collet, PGA, of John’s Island Club all finished in a tie for third at 8-under.
Congratulations to Team Southern California, which proudly represented the Section at the 2024 PGA HOPE Secretary Cup during PGA Championship Week in Kentucky. This marked the first year that a team from Southern California participated in the event, and they finished in 10th place, posting a tournament score of 2-under-par. The entire event was a fantastic experience and one that created lifelong friendships.
Southern California Team:
For the second year in a row, Southern California PGA Executive Director Nikki Gatch, PGA, and PGA Career Consultant Ed Winiecki, PGA, CCM, visited Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, for an event centered around PGA education and information. Those who attended included current PGA of America Professionals and anyone working in the industry with an interest in becoming a Member. The half-day seminar was followed by golf and networking.
Thank you to Carly Schneider, PGA, and Erik Evans, PGA, of Cabo Del Sol / Cove Club for the gracious hospitality and the PGA of Mexico for its support.
Congratulations to Patrick Pockels of Huntington Beach, California, for winning the 59th edition of the Southern California Open, finishing the 54-hole Championship at 16-under-par at Indian Wells Golf Resort. Pockels posted rounds of 66-65-69 to withstand the 220-player field and walk away with the trophy and a $10,000 check. His name is now etched into the Championship’s history books with the likes of Billy Casper, Gene Littler, Al Geiberger, Ken Venturi, Olin Dutra and other past champions.
Special thanks to host facility Indian Wells Golf Resort, inclusing PGA of America Professionals Joe Williams and Marissa Patterson-Egner for their hospitality, and the golf course superintendents and their staff for the fantastic course conditions. —Steve Monday
The Southern Ohio PGA Section is pleased to welcome Vuyo Mondi to its staff as the 2024-25 PGA WORKS Fellow.
Mondi was introduced to the game of golf by his father while growing up in Johannesburg, South Africa. He played competitively during high school at Hilton College, where he was a member of successful teams that achieved national success. In grades 11 and 12, Mondi was recognized as one of the best high school players in the KwaZulu Natal Inland region of South Africa. Now, Mondi and his father are on a quest to play all 14 courses that have hosted the Open Championship (11 down, three to go).
Mondi graduated from Arizona State in 2022 with bachelor of arts degrees in both African and African American Studies and Sports Business. Prior to joining the SOPGA staff, he recently completed the MBA/MSA Program at Ohio University.
“I look forward to continuing my love of the game of golf and using its great characteristics to enrich the lives of others,” Mondi responded when asked what he is looking forward to learning while on the Southern Ohio PGA team.
In his new role, Mondi will support the Section’s PGA REACH Foundation programming and fundraising efforts.
He will work closely with Section staff to continue growing Foundation programming, including PGA HOPE Southern Ohio, the SOPGA Junior Tour and the Scholarship Program. Players will also see him on the course at Section events throughout the season.
Mondi is excited to learn more about the variety of pathways that exist within the PGA of America and the golf industry as a whole. —Bretten Hill
The Southern Texas PGA Section would like to acknowledge the following three members this month:
Jason Alexander, PGAPGA of America Member Jason Alexander is a Stephen F. Austin State University graduate. While excelling professionally, Jason is a devoted family man, balancing his career with supporting his son Austin, diagnosed with Sotos Syndrome. Jason’s commitment to his family led to the evolution of “The Pros Show,” now featuring special needs kids and aired on the CW Network. His dedication to both golf and the special needs community highlights his belief that golf fosters lifelong relationships and positively impacts lives.
Cary Collins, PGAPGA of America Member Cary Collins has been immersed in the golf industry his entire life, inspired by his father, Ross Collins, a celebrated PGA of America Professional. With 22 years on the PGA of America Rules Committee, Collins has officiated 18 major championships, including two Masters. He is also the General Chairman for the 2024 USGA Women’s Amateur 4-Ball Championship at Oak Hills. After this event, he plans to retire from his 40-year career, cherishing the many incredible experiences and looking forward to more family time and golf.
Dr. Rich Ballinger, PGADr. Rich Ballinger, PGA, is a graduate of Ferris State University’s PGA Golf Management Program. Ballinger began as an Assistant Golf Professional in the Carolinas. From there his career transitioned to academia as Internship Coordinator at Coastal Carolina University before being a key part in creating the Sam Houston State PGM Program. Ballinger emphasizes the importance of diverse experiences and networking, preparing students to thrive in the world of golf. The program’s success is evident as it boasts a 100 percent job placement rate.
The STPGA is thrilled to have so many of our members exemplify dedication, passion and expertise that define our community. To read more about Southern Texas PGA Members, visit “Meet the Members” at stpga.com. —Trey Crites
Craig Hocknull carded a 2-under-par 70 in the final round to win the first major of the 2024 season, the Southwest PGA Spring Masters Championship held at Ak-Chin Southern Dunes G.C. in Maricopa, Arizona. Hocknull, a dual PGA of America Member between the Southwest PGA and the Metropolitan PGA, finished the 36-hole championship at 139 (5-under), one stroke better than runner-up Marty Jertson from Ping Golf. Desert Mountain’s D.K. Kim finished third with a total of 141 (3-under). The victory is Hocknull’s third Spring Masters title in the last four years.
The end of July/August is loaded with three Southwest PGA majors. First up was the 81st Arizona Open Championship, July 29-31 at Papago G.C. in Phoenix. Open to professionals and amateurs nationwide, the Championship is a 54-hole, state open golf tournament with a final field of 156 players – made up of place-winners from the five qualifying events in July and those players exempt from qualifying. Following 36 holes of play, the field was cut to the low 50 scorers plus ties.
The Southwest PGA Senior Championship/PPC takes place Aug. 19-20 at Wildfire G.C. at Desert Ridge in Scottsdale. The Championship is a 36-hole stroke play event that also serves as a qualifier for the 2024 Senior PGA Professional Championship, Sept. 26-29 at Sunriver (Oregon) Resort. The top 35 finishers qualify for the 2025 KitchenAid Senior PGA Championship in May 2025 at Congressional C.C. in Bethesda, Maryland. Dean Vomacka from Omni Tucson National captured last year’s title with a 6-under total of 138 (68-70).
The 67th Southwest PGA Championship/PPC returns to Las Vegas, Aug. 26-28 at Anthem C.C. in Henderson, Nevada. The 54-hole Championship is the premier member event on the Southwest PGA calendar. Ping’s Kim Paez made history in 2023 as the first woman to win the Section Championship. Her 54-hole total of 210 (70-67-73) was one stroke better than runner-up Jesse Mueller from Grand Canyon University G.C. The winner of the Championship annually receives an exemption into the following year’s WM Phoenix Open, which will be played Feb. 6-9, 2025, at TPC Scottsdale (Arizona). —Bill Ibrahim
The 2024 Tennessee Senior Open Championship, held on the picturesque Cumberland Plateau, brought together 100 of the finest senior golfers, creating an atmosphere of excitement and anticipation. The challenging Stonehenge Golf Course tested the skills of the field, with only three players managing to record consecutive rounds under par over the 36-hole competition.
As the Championship reached its final three holes, the leaderboard was tightly contested. Joe Markham (amateur) led at 6-under, followed by Jeff Lyons at 5-under, and Henrik Simonsen and Tim Jackson (amateur) both at 4-under. Markham missed a crucial short putt on the 17th hole that would have extended his lead to two strokes, maintaining a narrow one-stroke advantage. On the 18th hole, Markham found himself in the greenside bunker, while Jackson had a 20-foot putt for birdie, and Lyons had finished in the clubhouse at 5-under.
Markham hit a fantastic shot from the bunker to within 4 feet. Jackson would barely miss his birdie putt and Markham would sink his putt to win the Tennessee Senior State Open. Markham, from Cleveland, Tennessee, secured the Tennessee Senior State Open Championship title with scores of 68-70, finishing at 138 (6-under). Markham’s steady play in the final round included a birdie on the front nine, followed by another birdie on the 10th and 11th holes. He maintained his composure with six straight pars to clinch the victory.
The Tennessee Section extends our heartfelt gratitude to sponsor Fairfield Glade. Their support made this event possible. Special thanks also go to the entire staff at Stonehenge Golf Club and the volunteers from the Fairfield Glade community. Their warm hospitality and exceptional service were evident in every aspect of the championship. —Kelsey Ludwigsen
The Tri-State PGA Junior Tour concluded with a record number of players participating this season, and we crowned our Players of the Year at the iconic Nemacolin Mystic Rock championship golf course. Thank you to Jim Conroy and Jennifer Gregg of Isaly’s for being tremendous partners, sponsors and ambassadors for golf.
We returned to Nemacolin to host the Drive, Chip and Putt Sub-Regional Qualifier at the Nemacolin Golf Academy a week later. We extend our warmest congratulations to all the qualifiers who have earned the opportunity to compete in the Regional at Aronimink Golf Club, taking them one step closer to the prestigious Augusta National Golf Club.
The Section conducted its annual “Birdies FORE Charity” at Westmoreland Country Club. Thank you to our teams of TSPGA Professionals; we had the most teams to date participate in raising a record amount of proceeds for the PGA of America REACH Foundation TRI-STATE and UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh Foundation.
Thank you to Host PGA Professional Zachary Turek and an exceptional thank you to UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh Foundation Gifts Officer Nikki Braun for her kindness and dedication to the foundation’s mission and the fight to improve children’s lives.
We will close August with the Tri-State Section Senior PGA Professional Championship, contested at Green Oaks Country Club. Congratulations in advance to our Section Senior Champion/Qualifier, and three additional Qualifiers who will punch their West Coast tickets to the 36th Senior PGA Professional Championship at Sunriver Resort in late September. Thanks to host PGA of America Professional Ed Habjan and his staff, who will surely provide another excellent championship golf experience. —Frank D. Murgia
Dan Antonucci is being inducted as the 40th member of the Western New York PGA Golf Hall of Fame. A PGA Member since 1989, he has served as the PGA Head Golf Professional at Niagara Frontier Golf Club in Youngstown, New York, for 34 years. Antonucci’s contributions to the WNYPGA Section and the broader golf community are substantial. He has consistently shown an unwavering support of Section events as both a host and participant.
Antonucci has been on the WNYPGA Board of Directors since 2007, ending his tenure in 2023. During that time, Antonucci was chairman of various committees and held the offices of Secretary, Vice President, President and Honorary President. Presently, he serves on the employment and finance committees, and is a PGA Certified Professional in General Management.
Antonucci is also heavily involved in the PGA REACH WNY Foundation. He was elected to the Foundation Board in 2024, was a PGA REACH fundraiser hockey head coach for three years, and became PGA HOPE certified in 2020. He is the PGA HOPE Lead Professional at Niagara Frontier Golf Club, where, since 2022, he has hosted upwards of two HOPE Sessions each year reaching over 50 Veterans.
Throughout his tenure as Head Golf Professional, Antonucci has mentored and guided eight Assistant Professionals through the PGA Apprentice Program to Class A status, directed junior golf programs, and won several tournaments.
In addition to his playing accomplishments, Antonucci received the WNYPGA Golf Professional of the Year Award in 2011, the Bill Strausbaugh Award in 2012 and 2018, and the Player Development Award in 2008-10 and 2015.
Dan Antonucci’s career is a testament to his professional dedication, leadership and community involvement. His contributions have significantly enriched the WNYPGA and the lives of many aspiring PGA of America Professionals.
On behalf of the entire WNYPGA Section, congratulations Dan! —Mollie Mars
David Bach’s prodigious length off the tee and his familiarity with the Kohler Co. courses gave him a pair of advantages going into the Wisconsin PGA Match Play Championship.
That doesn’t mean it was going to be easy. Match play never is.
Bach, 29, the Lead Assistant PGA of America Professional at Whistling Straits, survived a birdie barrage by Andy Hansen and held on for a hard-fought 1-up victory in the championship match on May 16.
“I think match play caters to my style of game,” Bach said. “Overall, I have a pretty aggressive style of play. I make a lot of birdies but on the flip side of that, unfortunately, I can make some bigger numbers, which I’m working on for stroke play. But the good thing about match play, instead of losing two to the field (with a double-bogey), you just lose one hole.”
The WPGA would like to thank event partners StrackaLine, Ahead, Bushnell Golf and the PGA TOUR for lending some terrific support to the Championship.
A big thank you also goes out to everyone at Destination Kohler. 2024 marked the third time that the WPGA has been fortunate to utilize the four-course Blackwolf Run and Whistling Straits rotation for the Match Play Championship, and it always is a special week. —Gary D’Amato