​The Professional Golfers Association Hackers Tour (PGAHT)

Team Kremin Shines at the First PGAHT Event of the Year, Honoring Grey Cooper

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The first PGAHT event of the year was more than just a competition—it was a heartfelt tribute to one of our original members, Grey Cooper. Known for his unwavering positivity and passion for the game, Grey's presence on the golf course was truly special. Though we lost him last year after a courageous fight against cancer, his spirit remains with us. This event at Rancho Solano Golf Course honored his legacy on a picture-perfect day, with temperatures in the high 70s, a gentle breeze, and greens as quick as lightning.

 

Team Kremin Stuns the Field

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In a thrilling showdown, Team Kremin emerged victorious, pulling off a stunning upset over the pre-tournament favorites, Team Birdie Brigade, by a single stroke. The excitement started early, as Team Kremin exploded out of the gate with an eagle on the first hole, followed by a birdie on the second to quickly go three under par. A series of pars from holes 3-6 kept them steady, despite a few near-miss birdie putts. A birdie on the par-5 seventh sent them to the turn at -4.

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The back nine saw Team Kremin maintain their momentum with eight consecutive pars, then finish strong with back-to-back birdies on holes 16 and 17, securing a final score of -6 for the tournament.

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Birdie Brigade Comes Up Just Short 

 

Birdie Brigade, the pre-tourney favorites, matched Kremin’s fiery start with their own eagle and birdie on holes 1 and 2. However, a series of missed birdie opportunities from holes 3-8 left them stuck at -3. A birdie on the ninth tied them with Team Kremin at the turn. Birdies on holes 10 and 11 pushed them to -6, looking poised to take control. But a costly bogey on the long par-3 12th halted their momentum, and missed chances down the stretch left them one stroke behind.

 

Team Jarboe Stays in Contention

 

Team Jarboe also had a solid outing, finishing at -4. Their steady play saw birdies on holes 2 and 7 with no bogeys on the front nine, putting them at -2 at the turn. Late birdies on holes 15 and 17 kept them in the mix, but like the other teams, missed putts proved to be the difference.

 

A Memorable Day in Honor of Grey

 

The combination of great golf, perfect playing conditions, and a fantastic group of participants made this event a fitting tribute to Grey Cooper. His love for the game and joyful spirit were felt throughout the day.

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Next month, the tour moves to Franklin Canyon Golf Course in Hercules, CA, for the East Bay Invitational (formerly the East Bay Open). With momentum high, we look forward to another exciting competition. Stay tuned!

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