Northwest Open/2024

Hodgkinson Clinches the Win at Pelzer Golf Northwest Open Invitational

By: Cameron Altmayer, PNW tournament intern

Collin Hodgkinson, an amateur from Oregon State University, emerged victorious at the Pelzer Golf Northwest Open Invitational, held August 19-21 at The Home Course. Hodgkinson delivered an exceptional performance, shooting rounds of 67, 65, and 66 for an 18-under-par total of 198. His stellar play earned him a one-stroke victory over defending champion and PGA Professional Daniel Campbell of North Bellingham G&CC.

The Home Course, a Mike Asmundson design that debuted in 2007, has quickly gained a reputation as one of Washington’s premier public courses, earning the No. 2 spot in GolfWeek’s “Best Public Courses in Washington” ranking. Competitors knew the course would present a formidable challenge, but the weather added an extra layer of difficulty. Monday’s opening round was delayed by heavy fog, though players still managed to post impressive scores. Tuesday, however, brought heavy rain, creating a soft, soggy course that tested the field’s skill, patience, and perseverance.

Reflecting on his preparation, Hodgkinson said, “I felt confident coming into the event. After missing the cut by just one shot at the Canadian Amateur, I focused heavily on my putting. I knew that would be crucial at The Northwest Open, and I felt good about my stroke heading into the tournament.”

Nerves were present as Hodgkinson teed off for the final round, but his experience in high-pressure situations served him well. “Teeing off on the final round always makes me a little nervous,” he admitted. “But I kept reminding myself to stick to my routine. Playing in the final group at last year’s Canadian Amateur helped calm my nerves.”

Hodgkinson and Campbell were paired in the final group, with the championship on the line. The tension mounted as the two battled it out, but Hodgkinson’s composure held firm. Reflecting on his decisive final putt, Hodgkinson shared, “When that final putt dropped, it felt like a huge weight had been lifted off my shoulders. It’s been a while since I last won a tournament, so this victory means a lot. It was a grind out there, especially after a tough start through the first seven holes, but I stuck to my routine and rallied on the back nine to clinch the win.”

The Pacific Northwest Section PGA would like to thank The Home Course for their hospitality and support of this year's championship. We want to thank PGA General Manager Justin Gravatt, PGA Head Professional Mitch Runge, and all their staff for a fantastic week. We are proud to have the support of our title sponsor, Pelzer Golf, and presenting sponsors, Nikon, Tagmarshal and Pacific Golf and Turf. We would also like to thank our supporting sponsors, including The City of DuPont and the PGA Tour.

Final results: https://2024secnorthwestopen.golfgenius.com