Bob Rannow of Ocean Dunes Golf Links won the PNW Senior PGA Professional Championship title by one stroke over Tony Robydek of Meadow Park GC, September 3 at Rainier G&CC.
In addition to Rannow and Robydek, Mark Knowles of McCormick Woods GC, Greg Manley of Meridian Valley CC and Monte Hanson of Bend GC qualify for the 2021 Senior PGA Professional Championship presented by Cadillac, held October 21-24 at PGA Golf Club in Port St. Lucie, FL. PNW PGA Professional Jeff Coston of Semiahmoo G&CC has an exemption into the national event as a previous winner of the National Senior PGA Professional Championship.
Rob Gibbons of Arrowhead GC captured the Hugh Starkweather award, which goes to the low player for both rounds that is 60 years or older.
Winning the Senior Division were Gordy Graybeal of Jefferson Park GC and Paul Cobleigh of Suntides GC, with Mike Coury winning the Senior Net Division.
Final results: https://2021secseniorpga.golfgenius.com.
History of the Championship
The Senior PGA Professional Championship was established in 1952. This very popular event, for those who are 50 years and older, has seen a major jump since the days of old. Some can remember all the way back in 1965 when Harry Umbinetti was the top money winner of the event taking home a whopping $250 dollars. Back then, the championship was held at the Yakima Elks’ Golf and Country Club with only 21 professionals battling it out for the mere sum of $920 dollars. Throughout the 60’s, 70’s, and 80’s, the Pacific Northwest Senior PGA Championship has seen many timeless and popular venues. Places such as Royal Oaks Country Club, Eugene Country Club, Manito Golf and Country Club, and Fircrest Country Club have all been in the mix since the beginning. The famous Bob Duden won the championship six times during the 70’s and seven times overall.
Rainier Golf & Country Club
Designed and built by Bob Collins, Rainier Golf & Country Club opened its first nine holes in 1920. It was considered one of the finest “out-in-the-country golf links” in the Seattle area, with the second nine opened for play in 1924. The second oldest private golf club in Seattle, Rainier G&CC has matured and evolved into one of the most imaginative and demanding tests of golf in the Northwest. The course is a shot-maker’s delight; it rewards power, finesse, and most importantly, accuracy.