Northwest Open/2025

Caparas Wins Pelzer Golf Northwest Open Invitational in Thrilling Playoff

PGA Professional Rudy Caparas of Five Iron Golf – Kirkland captured the Pelzer Golf Northwest Open Invitational on August 20th, making birdie on the first playoff hole to edge PGA Professionals Daniel Campbell of Bellingham G&CC and Blake Snyder of PNW Golf Academy.

Caparas, who had been chasing Campbell all week, called the win deeply meaningful. “There are many meanings to winning this event,” he said. “One is that my playing ability is there and that I can compete at a high level. It also gives me confidence in my own self that I have the game to compete wherever I go.”

Campbell set the tone early, firing a 7-under-par 65 in the opening round under cloudy, cool conditions that gave way to sunshine in the afternoon. He held a one-shot lead over amateur Dalton Dean of the University of Idaho.

Campbell continued his strong play on day two, reaching 13 under par and maintaining a two-stroke lead. Caparas and Dean trailed just behind, setting up a tight battle heading into the final round. Conditions were again fair.

Clouds greeted players in the morning before giving way to another pleasant afternoon at The Home Course. Caparas surged late, overcoming a double bogey on the 7th hole by staying patient and resilient. “I told my caddy after my double bogey on 7, let’s stay positive because one early bad hole doesn’t mean it’s the end of it,” he recalled. “The biggest thing was to stay in every shot, stay positive, and keep fighting till the end.”

That mindset carried him into the playoff, where he continued battling. “My mentality didn’t change during the playoff, I was just trying to produce the best swings I could and be as aggressive as I could within my abilities.” On the first extra hole, he delivered a decisive birdie for the win.

Caparas credited his comfort level at The Home Course as a factor. “I seem to play really well here,” he said. “A close buddy of mine texted me that me and The Home Course go together like PB&J. It just fits my eye fairly well.”

For Caparas, the victory is both validation and momentum. “What finally got me into the victory circle was just a positive, steady mindset,” he said. “This win helps me financially for Korn Ferry Q School, which is my big goal this year. I want to play on a big stage, whether it’s Korn Ferry or The Americas Tour, and just keep getting better.”

Dalton Dean of the University of Idaho earned Low Amateur honors, finishing fourth overall in a strong showing.

Caparas was quick to give thanks. “I am very grateful for everything I have been through and I ultimately give all my thanks and battles to my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ,” he said. “I also want to thank everybody at this event, the sponsors, all The Home Course staff, and the PGA of America and our Section for always putting together these major events.”

The Pacific Northwest PGA Section extends appreciation to title sponsor Pelzer Golf Supplies, presenting sponsors Pacific Golf & Turf, Nikon, and PLT Golf, along with supporting sponsors the City of DuPont and the PGA TOUR for making this year’s championship possible.

Final results: https://2025secnorthwestopen.golfgenius.com/