Author: iowagolf

McCoy wins Carroll Amateur in playoff over Simpson

June 9, 20250 commentsChampionships, News

Nate McCoy (above) of Ankeny notched his second victory of the season in dramatic fashion this past weekend at the Carroll Amateur hosted by Carroll National Golf Club. 

Scoring an impressive 54-hole total of 202 (-8), McCoy’s victory did not come without some adversity. In the final nine holes of the championship, McCoy and Will Simpson of Pella battled back and forth with birdies and pars in efforts to overturn each other for the title. Following closely behind them was Chris Thayer of Golden, CO, who concluded play with a 54-hole total of 203 (-7)

Coming down the final leg, McCoy made one last push of one-under in his final nine holes to give him leverage over the field. Despite this impressive run, Simpson matched McCoy with a one-under stretch to post a 54-hole total of 202 (-8) to force a playoff. After one playoff hole, McCoy ultimately took the crown as he made a par over Simpson. McCoy’s victory marks his second of the season. 

Now earning two victories after only two starts this season, McCoy is proving to be on a dominating run. With the IGA Match Play only two weeks away, McCoy’s stellar 2025 resume positions him as a frontrunner heading into the event. 

“It’s always nice to win,” McCoy said. “These kids can play and I am just thankful I had an opportunity to make the playoff. Will is a great player and made it difficult to even get into that position.”

Sean Davis of Council Bluffs won the Senior Division after posting a 36-hole total of 139 (-1). Davis made a total of eight birdies across the two days en route to his victory. Ron Peterson of Urbandale followed close behind claiming runner-up honors with a 36-hole total of 142 (+2). 

Dave Gaer of Des Moines continued his dominating winning streak with another victory in the Super Senior Division. Gaer posted a 36-hole total of 139 (-3) en route to his victory. Following closely behind coming in second was Tony Malizia from Humboldt who scored a 36-hole total of 140 (-2). 

Complete results

IGA Welcomes Three P.J. Boatwright Interns for 2025 Season

June 5, 20250 commentsNews, USGA

From left – Rylee Heryford, Ashton Martens and Erika Holmberg

The 2025 IGA championship season is underway, and excitement is buzzing throughout the Golf House Iowa office as IGA staff are gearing up for another thrilling season of competitive golf. With the start of a new season also comes a fresh batch of P.J. Boatwright interns who work directly with the IGA staff to learn about golf administration, media and marketing techniques, tournament prep, and other areas within the golf industry. The IGA proudly offers three internship positions: Championship Administration, Handicapping and Course Rating, and Marketing and Communications.  

Joining the crew as the Championship Administration intern is Rylee Heryford from Newton. A rising senior at Drake University, Heryford is majoring in Management and minoring in Finance while also competing for the Drake women’s golf team. Her interests in golf management and business drew her to the internship. 

“I’m really looking forward to spending the summer with the Iowa Golf Association as the Championships Intern. What drew me to this internship was the chance to be part of the behind-the-scenes work that brings golf tournaments to life. I’m excited to grow, learn, and be around a sport I’ve loved for years,” Heryford shared. 

Heryford’s IGA staff mentor, Karli Kerrigan, expressed her excitement for Heryford’s addition, “I’m thrilled to welcome Rylee as the IGA Championship Admin Intern for the 2025 season. Her enthusiasm for golf administration, combined with her diverse experiences on and off the course, make her a fantastic addition to our team. Rylee is a quick learner, and I can’t wait to watch her grow and thrive this summer.”

Also new to the crew as the Handicapping and Course Rating intern is Ashton Martens from Grundy Center. Martens is a rising senior studying Marketing Management at the University of Northern Iowa after formerly competing for the Upper Iowa University men’s golf team for two years. Martens is looking to work in the golf industry, so this internship was the perfect fit for his career interest. 

“I am looking forward to joining the IGA this summer as well as learning more about handicapping and course rating with Nate. I am very eager to learn about all of the opportunities and operations that make up an organization while assisting the IGA in a variety of ways,” Martens expressed.

“Ashton’s curiosity and commitment to learning the ins and outs of the golf industry make him really stand out,” Director of Handicapping and Course Rating Nate McCoy said. “I think he is really going to enjoy Course Rating and the opportunity to help our IGA member clubs and individual members.”

Rounding out the new additions as the Marketing and Communications intern is Erika Holmberg from Bettendorf. A rising senior at Drake University, Holmberg is double majoring in Secondary Education and English and minoring in Sociology while also competing for the Drake women’s golf team. Holmberg’s interest in multimedia communications and golf coaching compelled her to apply for the internship. 

“I am incredibly humbled to have been selected as the Marketing and Communications intern here at Golf House Iowa. Writing and golf are two of my passions, and this internship opportunity pairs both together perfectly. I’m excited to learn more about the behind-the-scenes intricacies of tournament setup and golf administration.”

Clint Brown, Holmberg’s IGA staff mentor, shared his enthusiasm for Holmberg’s welcome, “I’m thrilled to welcome Erika to the team! In both golf and marketing, precision, creativity, and timing make all the difference — and I’m excited to see how her fresh ideas and passion help us drive forward, both on and off the course. I’m committed to making this summer not only a great learning experience but also a fun and memorable one.”

The P.J. Boatwright internship opportunity is sure to be a unique and educational opportunity for Heryford, Martens, and Holmberg. Be on the lookout for these three new faces at Golf House Iowa and IGA tournaments throughout the summer! 

IGA Interns Participate in National P.J Boatwright Intern Summit

Iowa Golf Association P.J. Boatwright interns Rylee Heryford, Erika Holmberg, and Ashton Martens (right) began their internship journeys by attending the USGA P.J. Boatwright Intern Summit at USGA Headquarters in Liberty Corner, New Jersey last week. The summit welcomed over 50 interns from across the country where interns participated in various learning seminars, breakout groups and competitions, and networking opportunities. 

Among the most notable presentations was a Q&A session with USGA CEO Mike Whan in which he shared welcoming remarks, pieces of advice within the industry, and key takeaways from his own professional journey: “If you’re going to do anything with this internship, I encourage you to be a sponge. Ask questions, make mistakes, but most importantly, make your association better with your presence than it would have been in your absence,” Whan encouraged. 

Martens was inspired by all of the different speakers’ presentations: “It was amazing listening to USGA CEO Mike Whan and the different departments within the USGA and learning more about their job and mission for the future of golf.” 

In addition to hearing guest speakers, interns participated in various hands-on breakout sessions such as broadcasting, rules of golf, championship administration, and more. Interns also competed in a first-tee setup speed challenge and nine-hole putting competition. Martens highlighted the IGA as a top eight finalist in the putting challenge and earned a USGA golden ticket to commend his accomplishment. 

Throughout the summit, interns also had the opportunity to hear about the USGA’s future plans and goals for fostering growth within the game. One major project includes the U.S. National Development Program which aims to highlight talented junior golfers at the state level and provide opportunities for them to compete in nationally recognized events. 

Holmberg shared her interest in this project:“I was fascinated by the U.S. National Development Program. I think it’s a great idea to take an already-established national framework and provide similar opportunities to talented juniors at the state level. I’m excited to see how the IGA will implement these programs across the state.”

Each day of the summit ended with social networking opportunities for interns to connect with each other during meals, games, and other activities. “My favorite part of the summit was listening to and talking to everyone about the pathway of their careers and how they were able to find a job doing something they are passionate about,” Heryford remarked. 

While the P.J. Boatwright Summit may be over, the lessons and experiences from the trip are ones that Heryford, Holmberg, and Martens will carry with them throughout the duration of their internships and for the rest of their lives. 

Anderson makes final round charge, wins 47th Iowa Senior Amateur

June 3, 20250 commentsChampionships, Iowa Senior Amateur, Uncategorized

After an exciting three days filled with tumultuous weather and stacked leaderboards, two champions have been crowned at the 47th Iowa Senior Amateur Championship. 

J.D. Anderson (above right) of Johnston fired a 66 (-5) in the final round en route to his Championship Division victory, bringing his three-day total to 211 (-2).

 “Pretty much everything was working for me today,” Anderson shared. “I hit almost every fairway and green today which helped a lot.”

Jon Brown of Adel gave Anderson a good back-and-forth battle throughout the day but ultimately settled into the runner-up position after making three bogeys late in the round, shooting 71 (E) on the day. 

In the Super Senior Division, Dave Gaer (above left) of Des Moines overtook Jim Butler of Fort Madison for the crown after shooting an impressive 70 (-1) on the final day for a 216 (+3) three-day total.

“I went out this week and just played consistent, solid golf,” Gaer noted. “The course was tough and the wind was blowing, so I just told myself I needed to go out there today and play smart.”

Butler earned runner-up honors after carding a 78 (+7) for the final round. 

While Anderson and Gaer both carded under-par rounds today, their victories weren’t earned without facing some adversity. With only a few holes left to play, the course was met by a torrential downpour and roaring winds which resulted in a horn blast signifying a pause of play. 

“It was tough to maintain focus (in those last few holes). Our group played 18 when the rain was at its worst, and I just told myself I needed to try and make par,” expressed Anderson.

Gaer shared similar challenges in maintaining focus for the last few holes: “The course was tough and the wind was blowing. I was on (hole) seven when the monsoon happened and I had to stop to put a rain suit on. I was really just trying to make a few pars at the end.”

Fortunately, the delay only lasted 15 minutes and Anderson and Gaer maintained focus en route to their victories. 

Complete results

Smith wins 62nd Women’s Forever 39 Match Play Championship

June 3, 20250 commentsChampionships, Forever 39 Match Play

Flight winners (from left): Leanne Smith (Championship) Lynn Mawe (First Flight), Darci Duey (Second Flight), and Kelly Grimes (Third Flight).

From 90 degree heat to pouring rain, players experienced a wide range of conditions throughout their four nine hole rounds at the 62nd Women’s Forever 39 Match Play Championship contested at Grinnell College Golf Course in Grinnell.

The two day championship was kicked off with the nine hole stroke play qualifier on Monday. Fiona Watson of Des Moines shot 33 (-2) to earn the top seed in the championship flight.

Due to impending weather conditions, round one and semi final matches were contested on Monday. In the championship flight, Leanne Smith of Indianola glided to the finals by winning both of her Monday matches 4 & 3. Julie Buerman also made her way to the finals, but not without a challenge from number one seed, Fiona Watson. Buerman and Watson battled into two extra holes in the semi final match before Buerman advanced. Smith’s Monday dominance continued into the final match Tuesday where she earned a 5 & 4 victory over Buerman. With the win, Smith successfully defended her title and tallied her third win in the event’s history.

In the first flight, Lynn Mawe of Grinnell took advantage of playing on her home turf. Mawe won her Monday matches 2 & 1 and 3 & 2 before winning the flight in a 3 & 2 final over Jennifer Corkrean of Ankeny.

The second flight title was claimed by Darci Duey of Johnston. Duey made it through her first match with ease claiming a 5 & 4 victory. However, the semi final match required an extra hole before Duey advanced to the finals where she won 2 & 1 over Kelly Nelson of Waterloo.

Although it wasn’t in the championship flight, Kelly Grimes of Mitchelville claimed victory once again in Grinnell by winning the third flight. Grimes, who won the Forever 39 in 2019 contested at Grinnell College Golf Course, won 2 & 1 against Carroll Dethrow of Nevada.

Thank you to Shane Hart and the Grinnell College Golf Course staff for their flexibility and assistance throughout the championship. It is always a pleasure to get to host a championship at a nine hole facility and Grinnell College Golf Course was a great challenge for the players.

Full results: https://www.golfgenius.com/pages/5203501  

Golfers face windy conditions in day two of 47th Iowa Senior Amateur

June 3, 20250 commentsChampionships, Iowa Senior Amateur

While the sun has set on day two of the 47th Iowa Senior Amateur championship, the battle to crown a pair of champions has only just begun. With three players atop the Championship Division leaderboard each carding a second round 71 (E) and many in the hunt in the Super Senior Division, today’s final round is set to be a dogfight to the finish. 

In the Championship Division, Joe Palmer of Norwalk, Jon Brown of Adel (above), and Brian Verduyn of Polk City fared the elements to maintain their share of the lead.

Brown highlighted the day with a hole-in-one on the second hole.

“Second hole of the day and the wind’s howling right to left…Went in on the second bounce. Pretty cool,” expressed Brown. 

For the remainder of the field, the road to spotless rounds was far from easy. The players’ biggest adversary? The wind. With gusts up to 25mph, the links-style golf course left a trail of carnage. Triple-bogeys and worse plagued countless scorecards, and birdies became few and far between. 

“It was a two to three club wind out there today,” shared Gary Ellis of Norwalk. “I just had to trust my swing and trust the club and had to take some chances out there with the wind.”

Ellis shared the Championship Division low-round of the day with a 71 (E). 

Also carding a 71 was Ben Peters of Bettendorf. Making a strong comeback after a round one score of 74 (+3), Peters leads the entire field in birdies with a total of six so far. 

“I made quite a few nice putts today. When I’m getting the ball in play I’m able to score, I’m just hoping to get the ball in play more often,” Peters said.

The Super Senior Division was highlighted by Dave Gaer of Des Moines’ low-round of 70 (-1). As the only player with an under-par round today, Gaer made up some ground after an opening round of 76 (+5). 

“I hit 15 greens today which left me a lot of birdie putts. I avoided a lot of the fescue which certainly helps out here,” Gaer noted. “Heading into tomorrow, I’m really just looking to get the ball in the fairway and play smart.”

Jim Butler of Fort Madison shot 75 (+4) in round two which brings his two-day total to 145 (+3) and keeps him at the top of the leaderboard in the Super Senior Division. Following close behind is Gaer (+4) and a trio of golfers, Jim Madsen of Carroll, Tony Malizia of Humboldt, and Paul Wielage of Clive at (+6). 

With impending thunderstorms forecasted for tomorrow’s championship round, the entire field will begin play with an 8:30 a.m., shotgun.

Complete Results

Packed leaderboard at the 47th Iowa Senior Amateur

June 1, 20250 commentsChampionships, Iowa Senior Amateur

A crowded leaderboard highlights the opening round of the 47th Iowa Senior Amateur at Coldwater Golf Links in Ames, with five players tied for the lead at even-par 72. Sharing the top spot are Jon Brown (pictured above), Brian Verduyn, Joe Palmer (right), Kirk Macumber and Sean Davis.

While scoring opportunities were available, many players found consistency hard to come by—birdies often offset by bogeys or worse. Four competitors sit just one stroke back at 73 (+1), with seven more close behind at 74 (+2), all still in strong contention heading into Monday’s second round.

In the Super Senior Division, Jim Butler turned in a standout performance, carding a 70 (-1) — two strokes better than his age.

“It kind of came out of nowhere,” Butler said after his round.

Tony Malizia trails Butler by just two shots, while four additional players sit tied at 73 (+2), keeping the division wide open.

After Monday’s round, the field will be cut to the low 60 scores and ties, including anyone within 10 shots of the lead. The cut will reflect a ratio of entries between divisions — 35 spots allocated to Seniors and 25 to Super Seniors.

Complete Results

Weeks wins 2025 Lake Creek Amateur in playoff, Peterson & Malizia collect titles

May 28, 20250 commentsChampionships, News

Mason Weeks adds to family lore with championship

Mason Weeks (above) came to the Buena Vista University Golf Course at Lake Creek over the weekend intent on adding to the family hardware collection. He did all that and more in securing the 2025 Lake Creek Amateur title after shooting rounds of 68 and 70, then downing a fellow collegiate competitor in a one-hole playoff.

“My brother, Matt, won the Lake Creek Am in 2013,” said Weeks, as he shared a laugh. “Our dad, Paul, has never let us forget it.”

Weeks rose to the challenge and will now give his father reasons to seek other motivational means. He said his father gave him some advice as they texted on Saturday evening.

“My dad told me to stick to my process,” said Weeks, a recent graduate of the University of Sioux Falls and a two-time all-conference selection for the Cougars. “I knew that at Lake Creek, I needed to stay patient and not get too aggressive. I relied heavily on my irons and tried to hit as many greens as possible.”

Weeks had birdies on Nos. 4, 7, and 9 in the opening nine holes on Sunday, an outward side featuring a lone bogey on No. 5, where he had tree trouble off the tee and missed the green.

“I then had bogeys on both No. 11 and No. 12 and had a little talk with myself,” he said. “I knew some guys would be charging, so I had to get at least one more.”

He ended up making birdie on both par 5s at Nos. 13 and 16, holes he birdied the previous day. But when a 30-footer just slid left on No. 18, Weeks had to watch as Hogan Hansen, of Waverly, lined up a 7-foot birdie effort for the victory. When Hansen’s effort slid past, leaving both at 6-under par for the weekend, Weeks geared up to play No. 18 again, against Hansen in a sudden-death playoff.

In the playoff, Hansen reached the green from some tree trouble on the right. His birdie putt from 45 feet scooted past the hole, leaving him about six feet for par. After Weeks two-putted for his par, Hansen, an Iowa Hawkeye, saw his par putt miss right, which put the trophy into Weeks’ hands.

“I grew up playing with Hogan and Jake (Weissenburger, the two-time defending champion at BVU Lake Creek), and they are great golfers,” Weeks said. “Hogan played a great round today, and had two eagles, but just missed a putt at the end. It was so much fun playing in the last group with Hogan, Jake, and J.D. Anderson, who is one of the top names in Iowa amateur golf.”

Weissenburger and Ethan Mechling, of Des Moines, finished at two-under, good for fourth place. Anderson, a champion here in 2006 and 2009, finished at even par in eighth place. Nate McCoy, a second-place finisher at Lake Creek on a number of occasions, shot Sunday’s low round of 68, but would finish one shot back, in third place. The Ankeny resident and four-time defending IGA Men’s Player of the Year missed an eight-foot birdie putt on the last hole that could have put him in the playoff.

McCoy eagled No. 13 and birdied No. 16 to briefly pull him into a tie at the top.

“I try not to look at the scores, but when Nate made those numbers, I knew I had to keep charging,” Weeks said.

Weeks, who has been the medalist of the Iowa Amateur Qualifying event at Lake Creek in the past, plans to return to Storm Lake for this qualifier. The confidence forged in this victory should serve him well as he continues his summer schedule in advance of a fifth year of collegiate eligibility that will likely find him continuing his play at an NCAA Division I institution.

Seventy-nine golfers competed in three divisions during the Lake Creek Amateur. Golfers came from as far away as Keokuk to vie for honors in the Open Division, Senior Division, and Super Senior class. Urbandale’s Ron Peterson, a two-time Lake Creek Amateur Champion, edged Bill Matzdorff, of Cumming, by shooting 72-72 for an even par 144 total.

Sean Davis (Council Bluffs), Tony Newkirk (Des Moines), and Steve Eddie (Storm Lake) finished third through fifth.

Tony Malizia, of Humboldt, enjoyed a six-shot cushion in winning the Super Senior Division at 141 (three-under par). Steve Jordan (Johnston), David Studer (Keokuk), James Blackburn (Des Moines), and Bill Corrick (Fairfield) rounded out the top five.

“We had a great field from all over the state of Iowa, representing every corner of the state,” said Evan Krause, a former Buena Vista University golfer who organized and helped oversee the tournament at BVU Lake Creek. “Mother Nature cooperated with decent temperatures and the trademark winds that make Lake Creek a good test. We are thankful for our grounds crew for working to get the course ready for competition during a week in which we received more than three inches of rain.

“Of course, we couldn’t do this without the support we receive from Chad Pitts and the IGA, who show their faith in Lake Creek each year,” Krause continued. “We can’t wait to see Mason Weeks and many of these great amateur golfers back again as BVU Lake Creek hosts the Iowa Amateur Qualifying Tournament on July 9.”

Complete Results

Past Open Division Champions, Lake Creek Amateur
2025 – Mason Weeks, Spirit Lake (138)
2024 – Jake Weissenburger, Clive (141)
2023 – Jake Weissenburger, Clive (137)
2022 – Aaron Clausen, Storm Lake (141)
2021 – Brenden Bassing, Sioux Falls (143…36 holes)
2020 – Jack Evans, Brainerd, Minn. (144…36 holes)
2013 – Matt Weeks, Spirit Lake (213)
2012 – Gene Elliott, West Des Moines (207)
2011 – Kirby Pettitt, Carroll (206)
2010 – Justin Schulte, West Des Moines (207)
2009 – J.D. Anderson, West Des Moines (209)
2008 – Jon Brown, Urbandale (205)
2007 – Kyle Ritchie, Corning (211)
2006 – J.D. Anderson, West Des Moines (204)
2005 – Mike McCoy, West Des Moines (209)
2004 – Scott Quandt, Mt. Carmel (204)
2003 – Ron Peterson, Urbandale (141)
2002 – Ron Peterson, Urbandale (210)
2001 – Kevin Johnson, Urbandale (215)
2000 – Steve Smith, Johnston (207)
1999 – Jim Curell, Boone (205)
1998 – Jason Knutzon, Ames (207)
1997 – Nate Dunn, Manchester (67)
1996 – Ben Pettitt, Carroll (206)
1995 – Mike McCoy, Des Moines (172)
1994 – Mike McCoy, Des Moines (206)
1993 – Jon Brown, Urbandale (209)
1992 – Mike McCoy, Des Moines (206)
1991 – Jay Horton, Ames (207)
1990 – Al Pottebaum, Le Mars (208)
1989 – Mike Dunphy, Perry (207)
1988 – Todd Sapp, Lincoln (220)
1987 – Bill Manske, Algona (218)
1986 – Steve Winkel, Algona (215)
1985 – Ned Zachar, Ames (210)
1984 – Greg Tebbutt, Bettendorf (213)
1983 – Dean Kain, Algona (283)
1982 – Gary Claypool, Marion (278)
1981 – Jim Curell, Boone (242)
1980 – Dean Kain, Algona (288)
1979 – Jim Curell, Boone (287)
1978 – Bill Manske, Algona (277)
1977 – Chuck Null, Cedar Rapids
1976 – Julius Boros, Iowa City (139)
1975 – Lon Nielsen, Belle Plaine
1974 – Roger Null, Cedar Rapids
1973 – Larry Castagnoli, Fort Dodge

 

2025 Ann Griffel Scholars announced

May 28, 20250 commentsNews, Scholarships

The Iowa Golf Association (IGA) congratulates the 2025 recipients of the Ann Griffel (above right) Scholarship Award: Paige Franzen, Hope Faber, Malinda Voortmann, Lydia Krueger and Lauren Nuss. Each recipient will be awarded a one-year scholarship of $2,000. Since 1963, the Ann Griffel Scholarship Award has been helping students further their education. A total of 268 students have earned the honor of receiving this prestigious scholarship.

🎓 Paige Franzen
High School: Nashua-Plainfield High School
College: Coe College
Major: Nursing
Plans to play college golf
Parents: Philip & Jamee Franzen

“To me, receiving this scholarship means that I am one step closer to achieving my dreams of becoming a nurse. Additionally, I will be continuing my golf career at Coe College and will continue to grow the game for those around me. I am truly honored to be a recipient of the Ann Griffel Scholarship.” – Paige Franzen

 

🎓 Hope Faber
High School: Sioux Center High School
College: Dordt University
Major: Elementary Education
Plans to play college golf
Parents: Michael & Karri Faber

“Receiving this scholarship is a huge honor. This scholarship motivates me to continue striving for excellence both on the course and in the classroom. The game of golf will always be a huge part of my life and has taught me many lessons thus far. I hope all younger girls can experience this game in the same way that I have.” – Hope Faber

 

🎓 Malinda Voortmann
High School: Clear Lake High School
College: Iowa State University
Majors: Computer Science & Business
Parents: Jeremy & Kathleen Voortmann

“Receiving the Ann Griffel Scholarship is an incredible honor. I have always loved golf, from playing with my family growing up to competing on my high school golf team. This game has taught me valuable lessons and has allowed me to connect with many people. Knowing this scholarship carries on Ann Griffel’s legacy of supporting women in golf makes it even more meaningful. I’m so grateful to the Iowa Golf Association Foundation for investing in my future and encouraging girls like me to continue growing through the game.” – Malinda Voortmann

 

🎓 Lydia Krueger
High School: Norwalk High School
College: Iowa State University
Major: Graphic Design
Parents: Aaron & Tonya Krueger

“I am honored to be chosen as a recipient for this scholarship. Golf has been a very important and influential part of my life and it is a privilege to represent such a wonderful sport and organization.” – Lydia Krueger

 

🎓 Lauren Nuss
High School: New Hampton High School
College: University of Northern Iowa
Major: Biochemistry (Pre-Pharmacy Track)
Plans to play college golf
Parents: Marty & Carolyn Nuss

“I am truly honored to receive the Ann Griffel Scholarship. I want to inspire the future generation to pick up golf, as it plays a significant role in my life. Additionally, I am grateful to be chosen for this scholarship to help fund my studies and golf career.” – Lauren Nuss

The Ann Griffel Scholarship Award was established in 1963 as just one $350 scholarship awarded by the Iowa Women’s Golf Association (IWGA). The award has evolved into a $2,000 scholarship awarded to multiple high school senior girls who intend to further their education at an Iowa institution of higher learning, whether it be a college, university or trade school.

The Iowa Golf Association Foundation (IGAF) was established to preserve the game and develop more programs to promote the future of golf in Iowa. The IGAF awards the Ann Griffel Scholarship Award annually. This scholarship was named after the long-time IWGA President, Ann Griffel, who started the Girls’ State Junior, Forever 39 Match Play, State Wife-Husband and the Senior Women’s Championships in her 23-year term.

McCoy captures emotional victory at 40th Iowa Mid-Amateur

May 18, 20250 commentsChampionships, Iowa Mid-Am

It was a battle of grit and resolve at Whispering Creek Golf Club, and in the end, Nate McCoy (above) emerged victorious at the 40th Iowa Mid-Amateur Championship. McCoy weathered brutal conditions and a hard-charging Trent Lindenman to win by a single shot—and claim a title that carries deep personal significance, as his father’s name is etched on the permanent trophy.

Entering the final round tied atop the leaderboard with Lindenman and veteran Gene Elliott, McCoy got off to a strong start with two birdies in his first seven holes, making the turn at one-under-par.

Lindenman, who posted a front-nine 38, mounted a spirited comeback with four birdies on the inward nine. After two superb shots into the 18th green, he had a real chance to force a playoff. But when his eagle chip settled inside 10 feet, the ensuing birdie putt slid just past the edge. That left McCoy with a three-foot par putt for the win—a simliar length he missed in 2024 to fall out of a playoff in this very event.

This time, there was no hesitation. McCoy calmly rolled it in to secure the win with a final score of 73-80-70 (+7).

“It was maybe the three hardest days to play ever,” McCoy said with a smile. “The first day was firm and challenging, but the second round was the worst-case scenario—we got poured on during the back nine. I tried to keep the grips dry, but lost that battle. I struggled to keep the ball in play.”

While the final round brought calmer winds and finally some sunshine, the relentless conditions had already taken their toll.

“I was teeing the ball low and just trying to bunt it down the fairway at times,” McCoy added. “Into the wind, you’re trying to flight it, and even downwind it was tough. I was just trying to get a yardage to the front of the green and adjust from there.”

Aware that a strong final round was necessary, McCoy aimed to set a target that would force the others to chase.

“I thought if I could shoot four under, someone in the last group would need to go five under to beat me,” he said. “I knew I needed to try and go low today.”

McCoy had high praise for Lindenman, who nearly stole the spotlight with his late charge.

“I give a lot of credit to Trent,” McCoy said. “He’s one of the best guys I know and such a solid player. He really went after it. If he had gotten me, I would’ve been happy for him. I respect his game immensely—and him even more as a person. We’ll have some good battles in the future.”

As for the final putt? McCoy said he didn’t think once about the similar miss from last year.

“Actually, it didn’t even cross my mind,” he said. “I putted well this week—it was the strongest part of my game. I made a lot of key putts when I needed them.”

The victory was especially meaningful after last year’s heartbreak.

“After Bos Landen last year, I was in a dark place after missing that short putt,” McCoy said. “So I’m glad to get a win—and not have history repeat itself. This is a great way to start my season. Next up is the Lake Creek Amateur.”

In the Senior Division, Joe Palmer nearly lapped the field, finishing seven ahead of Ron Peterson, after firing rounds of 75-73-72. His round of 73 in brutal conditions in the second round was astonishing.

“It could have been better,” Palmer said after his second round. “I three putted a couple times.”

A similar story could be told in the Super Senior Division as Dave Gaer pulled away for a nine shot victory over Tim Peters.

“Those conditions were brutal,” Gaer said in summarizing his week.

Complete Results

From left – Dave Gaer (Super Senior Division Champion), Nate McCoy (Mid-Amateur Division Champion) and Joe Palmer (Senior Division Champion).

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