Nelson Team Claims Inaugural Michigan PGA French Lick Resort Pro-Am Title Michigan PGA Professional, Billy Nelson of Shooters Golf Shop, and his amateur partners Rob Jackson, Steve McCrossin, and Tony Ruelas, captured the inaugural Michigan PGA French Lick Resort Pro-Am, presented by Oakley, FH Wadsworth, and Antigua, by four shots. Nelson’s team faced a strong challenge from PGA Professional, Alex Macko of Jawor’s Golf Center and his amateur partners Robert Swanson, Daren Robinson, and Chris Milton. Macko’s group narrowed the deficit to just two shots during the final round before ultimately finishing runner-up, four strokes behind the champions. The event officially began with an opening reception at the historic French Lick Springs Hotel, where all participating teams were hosted. Originally established in 1845, the hotel underwent a major restoration in 2006, including the addition of a casino, blending its historic charm with modern amenities. Competitors played two rounds on the Donald Ross Course and one round on the renowned Pete Dye Course. It was on the challenging Dye layout where Nelson’s team created significant separation from the field, posting an impressive 14-under-par performance in the One Gross/One Net format. That standout round gave them a commanding nine-shot lead heading into the final day. The low round of the tournament’s final day came from PGA Professional, Michael Carrillo of Gull Lake Country Club and his amateur partners Kyle Barker, Mike Graham, and Sam Kite. Their 9-under-par round on the Ross Course moved them up the leaderboard to secure a third-place finish overall. Both championship venues delivered memorable experiences for competitors. The Ross Course, originally built in 1916, remains true to its classic design and is best known for its famously undulating greens. Its rich history includes hosting the 1924 PGA Championship, won by legendary golfer Walter Hagen. In contrast, the Pete Dye Course, which opened in 2009, offered a dramatic and modern test of golf. Situated atop one of Indiana’s highest points, the course features sweeping panoramic views stretching up to 40 miles across the surrounding landscape. It previously hosted the 2015 Senior PGA Championship and proved to be a highlight of the week for many participants. This year marked the Michigan PGA’s first time hosting a travel Pro-Am at French Lick Resort, and the event delivered an unforgettable experience for professionals and amateurs alike. The Michigan PGA extends special thanks to French Lick Resort and its staff for their outstanding hospitality, as well as to presenting sponsors Oakley, FH Wadsworth, and Antigua Apparel for providing tee gifts to all participants. Oakley representative Austin Tevlin was also on-site Sunday evening, assisting players in selecting new eyewear during the opening reception. Most importantly, thank you to all the professionals and amateurs whose participation made the inaugural event such a success! |