PNGA makes major changes to its 2020 championships

By The PNGA

In 2019, the PNGA went through a much-needed assessment on its purpose and mission, specifically when it comes to the administration of championships.

British Columbia Golf, Idaho Golf Association (IGA), Oregon Golf Association (OGA), and Washington Golf (WA Golf) are all active allied associations of the PNGA. A great deal of time working together for the betterment of the game in the Pacific Northwest. When you collectively combine all of our different formats, schedules, and activities, it becomes very clear that some of the PNGA Championships are competing and/or conflicting with allied association events and we feel this is not good for the game.

The PNGA was founded in 1899 to conduct a regional men’s and women’s amateur championship and identify the top players in the Pacific Northwest, but also to allow top players from around North America to compete in our region. It was not until the 1980’s that the PNGA added net competitions to some of its championships. At the time, this was done to attract a more diverse range of handicaps and golfing abilities to play in PNGA Championships. Since then, our allied associations have evolved and added much needed tournaments within their state or province that appeal to every type of golfing ability and provides a great membership benefit.

Therefore, the PNGA Board of Directors approved changes to our championships that will result in the PNGA solely focusing on competitions for the top amateur golfers in the Pacific Northwest. This will be done by retiring some championships, eliminating net competitions, and some new eligibility requirements.  This will ultimately help to align all our schedules so that our regional championships are the next step a highly competitive player makes after playing in his or her State or Provincial championships.

This decision was extremely difficult. The PNGA realizes that by eliminating net competitions some loyal PNGA Championship participants might not play.  However, the PNGA encourages everyone to take a strong look at your state or provincial golf association schedule.   The PNGA is confident you will find many opportunities and formats to enjoy.

The chart in the middle of this story are the changes that will go into effect in 2020. This includes consolidating the number of championships and utilizing our time and resources efficiently to continue our reputation of administering the best regional amateur championships.

As we look into the future of PNGA Championships, we anticipate this philosophical change will ultimately provide top amateurs in the Pacific Northwest the ability to earn more World Amateur Golf Ranking (WAGR) points and earn recognition and qualify for regional, national, and international events.  Additionally, we hope to create the opportunity to invite other top amateurs from around the world to compete, further elevating our regional championships.

The golf industry strives to be more inclusive and inviting for anyone that wants to play or compete in this amazing game. The allied associations in the Pacific Northwest are better equipped to provide that opportunity for everyone and we hope you understand why this change is necessary.

If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact the PNGA office at (206) 526-1238 or send us an email at troy.andrew@thepnga.org or scotty.crouthamel@thepnga.org.