Walla Walla, WA – In a thrilling showdown at the scenic Wine Valley Golf Club, PGA Professional Scott Leritz clinched the 2024 Senior Players’ Championship title after an intense five-hole playoff. Leritz, representing Royal Oaks Country Club in Vancouver, WA, showcased remarkable skill and determination, ultimately carding a 4-under par 140 over two days in challenging conditions.
The tournament, set against the backdrop of the beautiful 6,525-yard, par 72 course, saw a competitive field comprising 70 PGA professionals and 42 amateurs. The weather played its part, with the first round under cloudy skies and a chilly 54 degrees with a stiff wind, while the sun graced the second round, pushing temperatures slightly warmer.
Leritz’s path to victory was anything but easy. He faced stiff competition from Ryan Malby of Kalispell, MT, and Tom Sovay of The Golf Club at Redmond Ridge, WA. The trio was part of a nail-biting playoff that tested their skills and resilience under pressure.
Emerging as a standout among the amateurs, Gregg Guernsey of Royal Oaks CC nearly stole the show, finishing just one stroke behind Leritz at 3-under par. Guernsey’s performance earned him the low amateur honors, highlighting his potential in a field of seasoned professionals.
The leaderboard was tightly packed from the start, with Guernsey and fellow amateur Billy Anderson initially leading. They were closely followed by a group just one stroke behind, including Leritz, Malby, PGA Professional Mark Tunstill from Mallard Creek, and amateur Tim O’Neal, setting the stage for a dramatic conclusion.
We would like to recognize the collective efforts that made this event possible, including support from the City of Walla Walla and the exceptional hosting by Tyler Sweet, PGA Director of Golf at Wine Valley and Jim Pliska.
The Senior Players’ Championship is a 36-hole stroke play championship. There are professional and individual amateur competitions with both gross and net payouts.
CLICK HERE to view the Senior Players’ Championship results
WINE VALLEY GC – Wine Valley Golf Club has been rated “One of The Top Three Golf Courses to Play in Washington” by Golfweek. It has been awarded many other honors since opening in 2009. This stunning Dan Hixson design unfolds on a grand scale, playing over rolling hills in the shadow of the Blue Mountains. Wine Valley GC has broad fairways, dramatic bunkers, and bold, undulating putting surfaces.