STPGA Closes out the Year With an E9
STPGA continues to serve its Members, grow the game through STPGA Programs, and elevate the Association!
2024 was another record year for the STPGA and as we head into the Holiday Season, we thought it would be fun to recap some of our best moments and highlights. By the end of the day, 18-holes just cannot be finished, so let's go play an emergency 9-holes!
[Hole #1] Number of Players
The STPGA saw an incredible 2,130 participants tee it up across all events this year, demonstrating the growing enthusiasm for golf in the region. Of those, an impressive 457 unique players brought their talent and passion to our tournaments, making each event a showcase of skill and sportsmanship.
[Hole #2] Purse Numbers
2024 shattered financial records with an overall purse total of $476,750, rewarding the dedication and hard work of our players. Leading the way was the Section Championship, offering a historic purse of $77,200, the largest in STPGA history.
[Hole #3] Member Recognition
The STPGA celebrated milestones and welcomed new talent:
- 12 Quarter-Century Members and 3 Half-Century Members were honored for their decades of dedication to growing the game.
- 21 New Members joined the STPGA family, bringing fresh energy and perspectives.
- An impressive 119 New Associates began their journey, ensuring the future of golf remains in skilled and passionate hands.
[Hole #4] New Experiences
One-Day Events: This year, we added seven new one-day tournaments, creating even more opportunities for the 187 players who came out and competed.
Social Gatherings: Approximately
320 attendees brought the community spirit to life at our dinners and celebrations, sharing laughs, stories, and memorable moments off the course. Thank you to our facilities that had dinners or social functions during our events making our Championships more than just golf!
[Hole #5] Total Number of Sponsors
The support of 87 Section Partners was instrumental in making 2024 a success. These partnerships enabled us to deliver bigger purses, more events, and richer experiences for players and fans alike.
To view our entire contact list of partners, please click here!
[Hole #6] Hardest and Easiest Hole Locations
The ninth holes at two iconic courses highlighted the season’s challenge and excitement. At Omni Barton Creek’s Fazio Canyons, the Par 4 #9 tested players during the Boxto Memorial Championship with a 4.9 scoring average.
Meanwhile, Par 5 #9 at Champions Golf Club shone at the Section Championship, playing slightly under par at a 4.92 average. These stats showcase the skill and resilience of players across diverse challenges.
[Hole #7] Records in Participation
This year was a testament to growth and engagement:
- The GolfStatus Tradition Championship drew an incredible 130 players, making it the largest stroke play event in Section history.
- Our Coaching & Teaching Summit reached new heights with 63 attendees, who gathered to share knowledge, innovate, and build connections like never before.
[Hole #8] PGA Member Accolades
Our PGA Members made waves on the big stage:
- Jared Jones and Team USA would be victorious in the 31st PGA Cup against Great Britain and Ireland.
- Omar Uresti captured the Energy Transfer Texas Senior Open title, becoming only the fourth PGA Member to win in the tournament’s 27-year history.
- PGA TOUR Exemptions were earned by three outstanding players:
- Jesse Droemer (Houston Open)
- Ben Willman (Valero Texas Open)
- Austin Wylie (Mexico Open)
- National Representation: A total of 16 Members showcased their skills in PGA of America National Championships, proudly carrying the STPGA banner to prestigious events.
[Hole #9] Milligrams of Caffeine
It’s no secret that a year like this takes energy—LOTS of energy! With at least 75,000 milligrams of caffeine consumed, the STPGA staff, volunteers, and competitors kept the buzz alive, fueling a year of record-breaking success and unforgettable moments.
Looking Ahead
From historic participation and record purses to memorable gatherings and inspiring victories, 2024 was a year to celebrate. The Southern Texas PGA is ready to build on this momentum in 2025, continuing to grow, innovate, and create opportunities for everyone to enjoy the game we love. Here's to another outstanding year ahead!
