Alaska Golf Season in Full Swing
Jeff Ranf, AGA President
In the Spring Jackpot for the season opener on June 6th at Settlers Bay Golf Course, 100 players (50 teams) competed. The event sold out in a few short weeks with a sizable waiting list. Golfers commented that it was one of the best opening tournaments they had played in. It helped to have nice weather, and Settlers Bay did a great job as host. Each player was able to pick out a pair of Oakley sunglasses as they arrived at the 10th hole. Rob Nelson and Rich Teders won low gross and Austin Sjong and Laura Holman won low net. A HUGE thanks goes out to Color Art Printing and Oakley as our co-sponsors. Without sponsors, our events would not be the same.
Tournaments
As the season moves forward, Alaska Golf Association remains focused on improving our calendar of events, with the next two also to be hosted at Settlers Bay. Our Match Play event registration is closing June 20th, with the seeding round on June 26th, and those who qualify playing the weekend. The State Amateur application period closes on July 11. As a reminder, this year’s State Am is different than in the past to ensure that Alaska Golf follows the USGA’s guidelines when sending the medalist to the U.S. Amateur. Winners of AGA and club events around the state, along with applicants with a 7 handicap or better, may apply, with a maximum field of 48 entrants. Next year will be different as well – stay tuned for updates on that.
Registration is open for the State Senior Am being played at Settlers Bay on July 11-12. The Women’s State Am is being administered by the Anchorage Women’s Golf Association on July 21-22. The AWGA is combining this event with their Rings & Bling Eclectic tournament. Entrants can elect to play in one or both events this year, which is being held at Moose Run Hill Course. Registration deadline is July 10.
Everyday…
Supporting clubs and facilities statewide is one of our highest priorities. We’ve discovered over the past nine months the AGA’s communication hasn’t been what it could be. So, answering questions and following up on technology issues with members is something we’ve been focusing on. In addition, we are working with our clubs around the state to ensure their members are signed up and can receive local and statewide news, tournament announcements, etc. This includes continued information on tournament planning, rules education, handicap services, and member outreach. We are also reviewing ways to make association information easier to access so members can stay current on programs, registration windows, and important deadlines.
Member Benefits
Keep in mind that your membership helps sustain the programs and services that support golf across the state. These benefits as mentioned above include handicap services, eligibility for association events, access to rules and course rating resources, member communications, and support for initiatives that grow the game. Just as important, membership strengthens a statewide golf community that connects players, clubs, volunteers, and future generations of golfers.
Get Involved
One of the best ways to strengthen the association is through member involvement. Volunteers, committee members, and supporters play a meaningful role in championships, junior golf activities, rules support, and local outreach. If you are interested in giving back to the game, consider getting involved this season. Even small contributions of time and expertise can make a lasting impact on the golf community in our state.
Looking Ahead
Thank you for being part of Alaska Golf. Your engagement helps support competition, integrity, access, and growth in the game we all value. We look forward to sharing more updates in the coming months.