PNW PGA Professional Championship (PPC)/2023

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Austin Hurt Victorious at Section Championship

by Tanner Montgomery, PGA - Director of Tournament Operations

In a riveting display of skill and determination, Austin Hurt of Wing Point Golf & Country Club clinched a thrilling victory at the 2023 PNW PGA Professional Championship, presented by Club Car, Corebridge Financial, and Rolex. Held from September 19 to 21 at the picturesque and challenging Tumble Creek Club, the championship witnessed a fierce battle amongst the Section’s PGA Professionals.

With a three-round score of 212, Austin Hurt emerged as the triumphant champion, narrowly edging out Brandon Drake of CDA National Reserve by a single stroke. 

The journey to victory was a rollercoaster ride. Following the opening round, it was PGA Professional Corey Prugh of Community Colleges of Spokane who led the charge. Prugh, a seasoned champion with titles in 2020, 2019, and 2016, displayed his prowess by carding a remarkable four-under-par 68, defying the challenging, gusty winds that swept the course. Hot on his heels, just one stroke behind, were Brandon Drake of CDA National Reserve and Scott Erdmann of Oswego Lake Country Club.

As the competition intensified, the winds persisted at approximately 30 mph, making the course conditions even more daunting. After the second round, Prugh, Drake, and Erdmann found themselves in a three-way tie, each boasting a two-day total score of two-under-par. Meanwhile, lurking just behind, Austin Hurt sat tied for fourth at a commendable one-under-par.

The final day of action saw Austin Hurt summon his inner champion. In a thrilling climax to the championship, Hurt’s precision and composure under pressure allowed him to pull ahead of the competition, securing a nail-biting one-stroke victory over the formidable Brandon Drake.

“Winning my first major felt well deserved but hard earned,” said Hurt of his victory.

Asked how it feels to represent the Section at the upcoming National event, he stated that it was “a great honor” and wanted to thank all the PGA Professionals in the Section that made it possible. “After all, we represent you!”

But the excitement didn’t end with the top two finishers. In addition to Austin Hurt and Brandon Drake, Corey Prugh, Scott Erdmann, Derek Berg of PNW Golf Academy, Liam Kendregan of Sand Point Country Club, and Jeff Coston of Semiahmoo Golf & Country Club all earned coveted spots to advance to the prestigious 2024 PGA Professional Championship, presented by Club Car, Corebridge Financial, and Rolex, set for April 28-May 1, 2024 at Fields Ranch, PGA Frisco.In addition to these talented golfers, Colin Inglis of Shadow Hills Country Club, Russell Grove of North Idaho College, and Chip Sullivan already secured spots in the national championship based on their past performances.

Thank you to General Manager Jarred Jeffries, Head Professional Adam Alldredge and the members at Tumble Creek. We would like to thank our presenting sponsors: Club Car, Corebridge Financial and Rolex; supporting sponsors: Titleist/Foot Joy, Callaway, Nike, TaylorMade and Evolve Golf; and supporting partners: Gallagher, Golf Channel, Garmany Majors Shootout and PGA TOUR.

Final results: https://2023secppc.golfgenius.com