The first of six state-wide qualifiers for the 91st West Virginia Open Championship, hosted by the West Virginia Golf Association (WVGA), took place Sunday in Mason at Riverside Golf Club. Nearly 70 golfers teed off in hopes of obtaining one of 18 qualifying and two alternate spots available today for the final field of the West Virginia Open which will take place at Edgewood Hills Country Club July 31-August 2.
“We are excited to have the largest qualifier this year with 68 players. The Roush family dedicated a full weekend to prepare for the tournament today,” said Riverside’s owner Gary Roush.” “It’s been great seeing the growth of golf in West Virginia, and we wish everyone the best of luck!”
Earning Medalist Honors was Ryan Casebolt of Nitro who fired a three under par 67. Other qualifiers were:
- Jeremy Vallet of Logan, (-1) 69;
- Carson Higginbotham of Clarksburg, (-1) 69;
- John Logan Taylor of Charleston, (-1) 69;
- Mitchell Roush of Mason, (+1) 71;
- Mark Warden of Vincent, Ohio, (+2) 72;
- Jason King of New Haven, (+2) 72;
- Cameron Fallon of Parkersburg, (+3) 73;
- Jonah Fryman of Weston, (+3) 73;
- Brett Fluharty of Parkersburg, (+3) 73;
- William Johnson of Charleston, (+3) 73;
- Patrick Johnson of Racine, Ohio, (+3) 73;
- Davis Haynes of Ripley, (+3) 73;
- Kelan Lucas of Ravenswood, (+4) 74;
- John Ridenour of Long Bottom, Ohio, (+4) 74;
- Joshua Martin of Poca, (+4) 74;
- Sterling Shields of Mason, (+4) 74; and
- Ben Eckelman of Washington, (+5) 75.
Alternates are Joseph Koreski of Parkersburg and Chester Guzek of Snowshoe.
“This Championship showcases the very best golfers and courses in our state,” said WVGA Executive Director Chris Slack. “Our first day at Riverside Golf Club was outstanding and we are excited to host this year’s Championship at Edgewood Country Club and to have WVU Medicine as our presenting sponsor.”
The WV Open Championship has a rich 90-year history. Legendary professional golfer Sam Snead holds the record for the most WV Open victories at 17. The defending champion is Ryan Bilby. The WV Open features the best amateur and professional golfers in West Virginia.
For today’s leaderboard, visit WV Open Qualifier – Riverside Golf Club.
The second WV Open Qualifier is Monday, July 8, at Sleepy Hollow Golf Club in Hurricane.
For more information, please visit wvga.org.