Lankford Lays Claim to 39th NC Senior Amateur Championship
Event: 39th N.C. Senior Amateur Championship
Host Site: Country Club of Salisbury, Salisbury, N.C.
Playing Dates: May 6-8, 2025
Social Media: @CGAgolf1909
Related: Championship Website | Results | Course Analytics | Player Analytics | Photos
SALISBURY, N.C. (May 9, 2025) – Jeffrey Lankford of Mocksville, N.C., captured the 39th North Carolina Senior Amateur Championship in commanding fashion on Friday, finishing at 4-under-par 209 total for the week at the Country Club of Salisbury in Salisbury, N.C.
Lankford’s stellar second-round of 5-under 66 proved to be the difference-maker. He posted a 72-66-71 over three rounds to finish five shots clear of a three-way tie for second. It marks his first CGA individual title.
“Tee to green was pretty solid, that's normally my game,” said Lankford. “Even though I'm a member here, the course is so demanding. I made some putts and stayed out of trouble for the most part, which is the key out here.”
He plans to celebrate in classic fashion: “I'm going to go have about two or three transfusions with my buddies and my family,” Lankford said with a grin.
Three players finished in a tie for second place at 1-over-par 214 including Paul Jett of Southern Pines, N.C., Jay Barnes of Charlotte, N.C. and Jonathan Sielsky of Huntersville, N.C. Jett climbed the board with rounds of 73-70-71, while Barnes rode a second-round 2-under 69 into contention before finishing with a 3-over 74. Sielsky opened strong with a 1-under 70 and remained steady throughout the week.
Five players tied for fifth at 2-over 215, including Scott Park of Charlotte, N.C., James Pearson of Charlotte, N.C. and Larry Cloninger of Gastonia, N.C., all of whom posted rounds of 72 or better in the final round to hold position.
Salisbury Country Club, playing to a par of 71, tested the full field with its narrow fairways, subtle greens, and demanding approach shots. Lankford’s local knowledge and consistent play gave him a winning edge in a week where staying out of trouble was key.
The Carolinas Golf Association extends its sincere thanks to the staff and membership of Salisbury Country Club for their outstanding hospitality and support throughout the week. Special thanks to Head Golf Professional Chad Campbell, Golf Course Superintendents Ron Bivins and Gerry Moree, General Manager Isaac Davis, Membership Liason Angie Phifer and Food & Beverage Manager Erin D. Atwood for their support in hosting the 39th North Carolina Senior Amateur Championship.