Sacramento, CA — September 1, 2024
The 100th Annual California State Fair Golf Championship teed off yesterday at the historic Alister MacKenzie Golf Course in Sacramento, CA, marking the beginning of a three-day competition that has long been a staple of the California golf calendar. With a rich history dating back a century, this prestigious tournament has showcased some of the finest amateur talents in the state and beyond, and this year’s milestone event is proving to be no exception.
A Century of Tradition
First played in 1925, the California State Fair Golf Championship has grown into one of the most celebrated amateur golf tournaments in the United States. The event has witnessed countless memorable moments over the decades, from legendary performances by budding golf stars to dramatic finishes that have left spectators on the edge of their seats. The Alister MacKenzie Golf Course, a masterpiece designed by the famed course architect himself, has been the perfect setting for this storied competition, offering a challenging layout that tests every aspect of a golfer’s skill.
Day One Highlights
The first day of the championship saw thrilling performances and tight competition, with four players sharing the lead at 6-under par. William Chang from Danville, CA, Joey Hayden from Dublin, CA, Chris Bettencourt from Clovis, CA, and Curtis Da Silva from Monterey, CA, all finished the day tied for first place after firing rounds of 66. Each golfer showcased a blend of power and precision on a course known for its challenging greens and strategically placed hazards.
William Chang, a rising star from Danville, impressed with his calm demeanor and steady play throughout the day. Known for his sharp iron play and strategic course management, Chang navigated the tricky pin placements with ease, making key birdies on the back nine to finish strong.
Joey Hayden of Dublin matched Chang’s score with a round that was equally impressive. Hayden, renowned for his short game, demonstrated his skills with the putter, sinking several long putts that kept his scorecard blemish-free. His performance on the greens was complemented by his consistent driving, setting him up for multiple birdie opportunities.
Chris Bettencourt from Clovis showed why he’s considered one of the tournament favorites, posting a round that included eight birdies- including birdies on the last four holes. Bettencourt, known for his aggressive style, took advantage of his length off the tee and accuracy with his approach shots, allowing him to attack the challenging par 5s of the Alister MacKenzie layout.
Curtis Da Silva from Monterey, rounding out the group tied for first, displayed his versatile game with a solid all-around performance. Da Silva, who has a reputation for being a scrappy competitor, made the most of his opportunities with a string of birdies on the across his round despite bogeying his very last hole of the day.
Close behind the leaders, Matt Cohn of San Francisco, Finn McCall of Clovis, and Emil Nielsen from Wellesley Hills, MA, all finished the day at 5-under par. Cohn, a seasoned competitor with a wealth of experience in California golf, delivered a composed round featuring a mix of birdies and solid pars. McCall, a young talent from Clovis, matched Cohn’s score with a fearless approach that included a spectacular eagle on the par-5 17th. Nielsen, a visitor from the East Coast, impressed with his steady play, adapting quickly to the challenges posed by the quick MacKenzie greens.
Local Hopefuls and International Competitors
Sacramento’s own Patrick Dumag finished the day at 4-under, giving local fans plenty to cheer about. Dumag, well-versed in the nuances of the Alister MacKenzie course, used his local knowledge to navigate the greens effectively, putting himself in contention heading into day two.
Also tied at 4-under are Matthew Robles from Downey, CA, Jolo Timothy Magcalayo from Santa Rosa, Philippines, recent First Tee of Greater Sacramento graduate Ryan Firpo from Davis, CA, and Ben Friedman from Mill Valley, CA. Magcalayo, an international competitor, provided a unique flair to the event, showcasing his polished skills and keeping himself well within reach of the leaders. His presence adds a global dimension to the championship, highlighting its growing appeal beyond California. The rest of the scores and field can be found HERE. Previous years results and stories can be found HERE.
Looking Ahead
As the championship moves into its second day, anticipation is building. With a tightly packed leaderboard and a course known for its potential to swing momentum in an instant, the next two days promise high drama and exceptional golf. Spectators and golf enthusiasts alike are eager to see who will rise to the occasion and etch their name into the history books of the California State Fair Golf Championship.
The legacy of this tournament, now a century old, is built on moments of brilliance and the pursuit of excellence. As the sun sets on the first day of competition, one thing is clear: the 100th edition of the California State Fair Golf Championship is living up to its storied past, delivering thrilling golf and setting the stage for an unforgettable finale.
