by Molly Cooper, PGA – Senior Director, Tournament & Member Services
We are proud to announce that in the fifth year of the PNW PGA 100 Hole Marathon, we collectively raised $90,101 for our local charities. This year, 52 PNWPGA Professionals, 3 PGA HOPE Veterans, and 8 high school golfers each completed 100 holes to drive donations to a charity of their choice. Twenty-eight participants played at Meadow Park – Williams 9, while the remaining 31 played at sites throughout the Oregon, Western Montana, and Inland Empire Chapters. Each participant selected a charity they were passionate about, helping raise crucial funds. Over the past five years, this event has contributed $391,289 to various causes.
Amy Wilson played for PGA HOPE, an adaptive golf program offered free of charge to military veterans, with seven of her high school golfers. “Participating in the 100 Hole Marathon with my high school team was truly a one-of-a-kind experience in my 20 years of coaching,” she said. “Our shared commitment to supporting PGA HOPE made every hole worth it.”
Chris Nowlen also raised funds for PGA HOPE alongside David Owens and Connor Sproull at Missoula Country Club. He shared, “It’s amazing how we’ve come together with a purpose to raise nearly $400K for charity across the Pacific Northwest. I will play as long as my body holds up!”
David Owens added, “In the five years we’ve done this, we’ve raised money for Special Olympics, the Humane Society, Ronald McDonald House, and now PGA HOPE. What an incredible way to raise money for deserving people by doing something we love. I look forward to it every year.”
PGA HOPE Ambassador Jeff Bojanowski commented, “The pride I feel when playing in the 100 Hole Marathon, knowing that I’m helping those we served have something to look forward to, is a feeling I always want to have.”
David Hobson raised funds for Champions Foundation, which runs a variety of local initiatives in Washington State aimed at empowering undeserved communities. He noted, “Helping out organizations that extend a helping hand to those in need is one of my main ‘whys’ for being a PGA Professional.”
Sara and Chris Griffin raised funds in honor of their late friend Peyton Poler. They stood beside the Poler family in their grief and raised money for a scholarship at Grays Harbor Community Foundation in her name, ensuring Peyton’s spirit continues to inspire others. Sara reflected, “Playing in the 100 Hole Marathon is always a physical challenge—but this year, it was also emotional and deeply meaningful. We weren’t just walking or riding fairways and chasing birdies. We were carrying with us the memory of Peyton Poler, and doing what we can to honor her life, her faith, and the incredible love she shared with the people around her. This was more than a round of golf—it’s a tribute, a legacy, and a promise that Peyton’s story continues.”
Chad Wagner and Garrett Smithson raised $5,100 for Olympic Peninsula Junior Golf at The Cedars at Dungeness in March. Chad observed, “It’s incredible to see our small community rally behind this event time and again. This year, supporting Olympic Peninsula Junior Golf is especially meaningful, as it will help shape the future of so many young golfers. I’m truly grateful to be part of something that leaves such a lasting impact.”
Garrett added, “The 100 Hole Marathon is near and dear to my heart. Playing 100 holes in one day is as brutal as it sounds. Knowing how we benefit various charities makes it so worth it.”
Erik Haag and Robert Silky raised funds for Tacoma Parks Foundation. Erik said,
“Supporting Tacoma Parks Foundation to help fund our after-school programs, Club B and Beyond the Bell, has been such an enjoyable experience. It gives kids who otherwise wouldn’t have the opportunity the chance to learn the game of golf.”
Robert echoed the sentiment, adding, “Playing in the 100 Hole Marathon (and walking all 100 holes) to raise money for Tacoma Parks Foundation… meant a lot to me. Any opportunity to give youth access to outdoor recreation is very important.”
Vince Domenzain and eight other PGA Professionals played at Stone Ridge Golf Club, raising funds for PGA HOPE and PGA Jr. League. Vince shared, “It was a long day on the course, but so satisfying to represent the Pacific Northwest PGA Professionals in raising funds for veterans and junior golf.”
Patrick Oropallo agreed, saying, “Spending the day on the course with my fellow Southern Oregon professionals in support of two impactful programs was truly inspiring. There’s nothing better than coming together for a great cause and the game we love.”
Chris Daggitt added, “I feel very blessed to play golf to help raise funds for PGA HOPE and PGA Jr. League here in Southern Oregon. Helping our veterans and future golfers get the opportunity to get on the course is all I can ask.”
At Fairwood G&CC, Sam Smith, Travis Wright, and Austin Barlow raised $25,000 for Parkinson’s research. Their entire membership rallied behind them, cheering them on and donating in support of their fellow member and friend. Monte Koch also joined the group to raise funds for Vine Maple Place.
Sam shared, “The Fairwood membership truly stepped up for a cause close to our hearts. When Julie Acteson’s friend Kendra approached us about supporting the Parkinson’s Foundation, we knew it was the perfect fit. Nearly 50 members met us with signs at the final hole, and Julie joined us. It was an emotional sight to behold. I’m so proud of this community and their generosity.”
Travis added, “The 100 Hole Marathon is so much bigger than golf. I could play every day, but what better way to inspire and support others?”
Anne Bahr and Mitch Runge raised funds for Saint Martin’s Golf Programs, which Anne coaches. “This was our third year playing together, and it’s always rewarding getting to play a game we love together with other PNW PGA professionals, as well as raising funds for various charities and organizations throughout our Section,” said Anne. “We can’t wait to run it back in 2026!”
Evan Johnsen raised $1,500 for PGA Jr. League scholarships. “We had a great day filled with laughs, celebrations, more birdies than bogeys, and more than 30,000 steps over 11 hours in an effort to reach our goal of 100 holes. And all of my steps paid off… so that kids at First Tee – Greater Seattle can join our (PGA Jr. League) program regardless of their family’s ability to pay.”
Ben Talbot, who played for First Tee – South Puget Sound Chapter, knows firsthand the impact the youth scholarship fund can have. The program alumni and current staff member shared, “With 60% of participants in the chapter utilizing the fund, it gives them access to our Life Skills Curriculum and green grass facilities that these youth may never have had otherwise.”
Leslie Guzman played for Girls’ Golf, which aims to keep girls engaged in golf with mentors they can relate to. She shared, “Over 40% of girls drop out of sports after middle school so it’s important that we do everything we can to keep those girls engaged. Thank you to all who supported us through this 100 Hole Golf Marathon and to those who will continue to uplift and support the young girls in their lives!”
Jared Lambert, who played for Folds of Honor, summed it up powerfully, “It’s a fun challenge, but more than that, it’s a meaningful way to support military families who’ve sacrificed so much. Knowing the money raised goes toward scholarships for their kids and spouses puts it all into perspective.”
We hope you’ll consider joining our Section-wide event next year! We invite you to play—and to bring your members along for the challenge.
Thank you to all who participated, donated, and cheered us on. We felt your support every step (and swing) of the way!