PNW Senior Players/2023
Knowles Prevails in Cold and Wind to Win PNW PGA Senior Players’ Championship
On April 18-19, the PNW PGA Senior Players’ Championship took place at Wine Valley Golf Club in Walla Walla, Washington. Despite cold and windy conditions, the players put on an impressive display of golf, with Mark Knowles of McCormick Woods GC ultimately emerging as the champion. Knowles shot a two-day total of 143, two strokes better than second-place finisher Birk Nelson of Orange Whip Trainer.
Wine Valley Golf Club, a stunning Dan Hixson design, lived up to its reputation as one of the top three golf courses to play in Washington, according to Golfweek. Since opening in 2009, the course has earned numerous honors. Playing over rolling hills in the shadow of the Blue Mountains, this course provided a challenging but rewarding setting for the PNW PGA Senior Players’ Championship.
In addition to his impressive play, Mark Knowles spoke highly of Wine Valley Golf Club and how much he enjoys playing there. "I really look forward to playing Wine Valley all winter long," Knowles said. "The turf conditions are so good from tee to green and an absolute treat to play; especially after a wet and soggy winter on the west side. I probably played the course in my mind once or twice a week this off-season."
Despite the challenging weather conditions, Knowles remained focused and tried to embrace the challenge. "I did not practice for wind and cold specifically, but I have a lower ball flight and was striking the ball solid over the two rounds," he said. "Round 1 was probably as challenging of conditions that I can remember ever playing. Every single shot was difficult."
Knowles' determination and skill were evident in the second round of the tournament when he found himself four shots off the lead after nine holes. "I thought I needed to shoot 30 on the back nine to have a chance," he said. "I was surprised that on the 15th hole, I was leading after making birdies on 10, 12 and 15. I tried to stay aggressive and keep executing my routine on each shot. I made two par-saving putts on 16 and 17."
Winning the PNW PGA Senior Players’ Championship was a special moment for Knowles, who has been working hard to make his game competitive with the best players in the section. "Winning this event is very special," he said. "Every year I have a goal of winning a major and this is my first."
Billy Bomar and Jeff Coston both shot a 146, finishing tied for third. Low amateur honors went to Bradley Karns of Tri Mountain GC and Michael Cairns of The Home Course. Birk Nelson and Dave Christenson qualified in the Garmany Majors Shootout, a new "closest to the pin" contest. They each advanced to the Garmany Majors Shootout Finale, to be held at Suncadia Resort - Tumble Creek Club on September 18.
The PNW PGA Senior Players’ Championship, the first senior major of the year, is a 36-hole stroke play championship. Overall, it was a thrilling showcase of the skill and talent of some of the region's top senior golfers. The impressive play of Mark Knowles and other competitors served as a reminder of the beauty and excitement of the game of golf, even in less-than-ideal weather conditions.
We are thrilled and grateful to have the generous support of Liz Ogle with Sunice and the City of Walla Walla as our sponsors. We extend our sincere appreciation to PGA Director of Golf Tyler Sweet, the Wine Valley staff, and all the participants for making this event truly amazing!
Final results:https://2023secsrplayers.golfgenius.com