The first of six state-wide qualifiers for the 92nd West Virginia Open Championship, hosted by the West Virginia Golf Association (WVGA), took place on Monday at Guyan Golf and Country Club in Huntington. Over 50 golfers teed off in hopes of obtaining one of 15 qualifying and two alternate spots available today for the final field of the West Virginia Open which will take place at Sleepy Hollow Golf Course in Hurricane on July 23-25.
“We haven’t had an Open qualifier in a few years, so we’re glad to have it back. It gives our members a great chance to participate,” said Guyan’s Head Golf Professional Rick Ellison. “Conditions were perfect today with re-paved cart paths on the back nine and fairways that are coming to life, even in this weather.”
Earning Medalist Honors were Joshua Martin of Poca and Chris Bohach of Ona, both finishing at even par (E) 71. Other qualifiers were:
- John Bumgarner of Scott Depot, (+1) 72;
- Briam Stuck of St. Albans, (+1) 72;
- Baley Beckwith of Huntington, (+1) 72;
- Mason Weese of Charleston, (+1) 72;
- Tyler Shamblin of Elkview, (+2) 73;
- Nikolas Tomblin of Alum Creek, (+2) 73;
- Nick Gilkerson of Barboursville, (+3) 74;
- Jeff McGraw of Princeton, (+3) 74;
- Troy Leport of Huntington, (+4) 75;
- Clayton Thomas of Proctorville, Ohio, (+4) 75;
- Kellen Pauley of Hurricane, (+4) 75;
- Tyler Hetzer of Milton, (+4) 75; and
- Chase Preston of Logan, (+5) 76.
Alternates are Cledus Judd of Huntington and Tanner Sutphin of Hurricane.
“This Championship showcases the very best golfers and courses in our state,” said WVGA Executive Director Chris Slack. “Our first day at Guyan was outstanding and we are excited to host this year’s Championship at Sleepy Hollow Golf Course and to have Generations Ford and Generations Physical Therapy as our presenting sponsors.”
The WV Open Championship has a rich 91-year history. Legendary professional golfer Sam Snead holds the record for the most WV Open victories at 17. The defending champion is Todd Duncan of Daniels. The WV Open features the best amateur and professional golfers in West Virginia.
For today’s leaderboard, visit WV Open Qualifier – Guyan Golf & Country Club.
The second WV Open Qualifier is Tuesday, July 1, at The Pines Country Club in Morgantown.