Amateurs Dominate 2026 Tar Heel Cup Matches to Reclaim Cup, 9–3

4/7/2026 11:43:00 AM

WALLACE, N.C. (April 7, 2026) – Final results from the 31st Tar Heel Cup Matches held at River Landing Country Club’s Landing Course in Wallace, N.C.

After years of close calls, the Carolinas amateurs didn’t just win the 2026 Tar Heel Cup, they took it back with authority, rolling to a 9–3 victory over the North Carolina PGA Professionals.

The amateurs set the tone early in Four-Ball play, building a 3–1 advantage that immediately put pressure on the defending side. From there, they never let up.

In Singles, the amateurs secured six of the eight matches to close out a decisive performance.

The 2025 N.C. Amateur Champion, Jackson Spires, opened the day with a 2-up win over Cooper Hrabak of Mid Pines Inn & Golf Club, and Peter Bowie followed with a 1-up victory against Luke Lovell of The Country Club of Asheville. Two-time CGA Champion, Nic Brown, added a 3-and-2 win over John Faidley of The Club at Longview, while one half of the reigning Carolinas Four-Ball Championship side, Stephen Lavenets, delivered a 2-and-1 victory against Bryce Young of New Bern Golf & Country Club.

Zach Edmondson turned in one of the most dominant performances of the day, defeating Chris Haarlow of Precision Golf School, 5 and 3, and Jacob Golliday followed with a 5-and-4 victory over Dave Ambrose of Elk River Club.

The Professionals earned two points in Singles play. Zach Martin of Longleaf Golf & Family Club defeated 2025 Carolinas Mid-Amateur and Carolinian Amateur champion, Brett McLamb, 3 and 2, and Adam Fisher of North Ridge Country Club was 3 up through 15 holes against 2021 N.C. Mid-Amatuer champion, Dan Walters. While Fisher’s result was not officially submitted at the time, it contributes to the final 9–3 margin.

The Tar Heel Cup Matches are an annual friendly competition featuring eight of the top PGA Professionals, selected by the Carolinas PGA Section, and eight of the top amateur golfers, selected by the Carolinas Golf Association, in North Carolina. The format includes one day of Four-Ball matches followed by one day of Singles matches, with one point awarded for each match won. A total of 6½ points is required to win the Cup.

With the victory, the amateurs reclaim the Cup in convincing fashion, delivering one of the most decisive performances in recent memory.

The Carolinas Golf Association extends its sincere thanks to the members and staff of River Landing Country Club, and to Director of Golf Larry George, for their continued support in hosting this championship.

The Spring Issue of Carolinas Golf Has Arrived

4/2/2026 11:24:00 AM

The Spring 2026 issue of Carolinas Golf is here, and it’s one of our most immersive editions to date.

This issue is built around a simple idea: the road to Augusta does not begin at the gates of Augusta National. It starts right here in the Carolinas, across the courses, communities, and quiet corners of the game that shape the journey long before anyone reaches Magnolia Lane.

From Pinehurst to Aiken and beyond, this issue explores that road from a different perspective. Not through leaderboards or highlight reels, but through the people, places, and stories that give the game its depth.

Here’s a look at what you’ll find inside.

On the Road to Augusta

A behind-the-scenes journey from the Sandhills of North Carolina to Augusta, Georgia, told through the lens of photography, storytelling, and the rhythm of a true golf road trip. Stops along the way include Pine Needles, Camden Country Club, Palmetto Golf Club, and Aiken Golf Club.

This is not a guide to where to play. It is a look at how the game is experienced when you slow down and take it all in. Early mornings, long drives, range sessions, conversations, and the quiet work that often goes unseen.

It is golf as a journey, not a destination.

From Our Fairways to Magnolia Lane

Every April, the spotlight shifts to Augusta National. But the Carolinas are always part of that story.

This piece highlights the amateur players, past and present, who have made their way from our fairways to one of the biggest stages in the game. It is a reminder that the Carolinas are not just a backdrop to the game, but a pipeline.

These are the roots behind the spotlight.

Where the Azaleas Still Bloom

At Cape Fear Country Club, the road to Augusta once ran straight through Wilmington.

This story traces that connection through the life of Joey Hines, who grew up quite literally on the edge of the range during the Azalea Open era, when the game’s biggest names passed through town on their way to the Masters. What remains is not just history, but stewardship. A course, a club, and a city that still carry the echoes of that time.

It is not about spectacle. It is about memory, continuity, and the quiet weight of a place that helped shape the path to Augusta long before it became a destination.

George Cobb: The Carolinas Architect Behind Augusta National's Par 3 Course

The Par 3 Contest at Augusta has become one of the most beloved traditions in golf. This story captures that spirit through a Carolinian lens.

Family, fun, and a side of the game that does not always show up on Sunday afternoons. It is a reminder that golf, at its best, is shared.

The Spring 2026 issue of Carolinas Golf is now available digitally. Take a few minutes, slow down, and step into the journey.

Read the Spring Issue

PAR-TEE in the Pines with Darius Rucker

3/27/2026 4:02:00 AM

Wednesday, April 29, 2026 • 8:00 PM
The Carolina Hotel at Pinehurst Resort

Get ready for a one-of-a-kind night in the Sandhills.

The Carolinas Golf Foundation invites you to PAR-TEE in the Pines, an intimate evening with Darius Rucker at the iconic Carolina Hotel at Pinehurst Resort. This isn’t your typical concert, it’s a rare chance to experience one of music’s most recognizable voices up close, in a setting that doesn’t come around often.

Even better, it’s all for a great cause. Proceeds from the evening will support the Carolinas Golf Foundation and the Boys & Girls Club of the Sandhills, helping grow the game and positively impact kids and families in our community.

🎟️ Tickets

Reserved Seating: $650 (+tax/fees)
Limited availability
General Admission: $350 (+tax/fees)
Standing room only

👉 Snag your tickets here now before they’re gone.

📍 Event Location

The Carolina Hotel at Pinehurst Resort
80 Carolina Vista Dr.
Pinehurst, NC 28374

ℹ️ Know Before You Go

This is a benefit event, and a few important guidelines are in place:

Tickets are non-transferable
Resale is not permitted
If the event is canceled, refunds will be issued for the ticket price (excluding processing fees)

🚫 Prohibited Items

To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone, the following items are not allowed:

Outside food or beverages (including alcohol)
Weapons of any kind
Illegal substances
Large bags or backpacks
Coolers, cans, or glass containers
Professional cameras or video equipment without credentials
Selfie sticks, tripods, drones
Laser pointers, fireworks, or flammable items
Signs, banners, or flags
Noise-making devices (air horns, whistles, etc.)
Chairs or large umbrellas
Animals (except registered service animals)

Management reserves the right to refuse any item deemed unsafe or inappropriate.

🎶 A Night That Matters

Great music. A legendary venue. A meaningful cause.

This is more than a concert, it’s a chance to be part of something special in the Carolinas golf community.

We’ll see you in Pinehurst.

McLeod Pulls Away Late to Win 7th HV3 Boys’ Invitational

3/26/2026 4:38:00 AM

Event: 7th HV3 Invitational
Host Site: Gaston Country Club & Cramer Mountain Club
Playing Dates: March 21-22, 2026
Social Media: @CGAgolf1909

Related: Championship Website | Results | Photos

GASTONIA, N.C. — Colin McLeod of Lillington, N.C. closed in style to claim the title at the 7th HV3 Boys’ Invitational, finishing at 10-under-par (133) across two rounds at Gaston Country Club and Cramer Mountain Club.

McLeod entered the final round in contention only four shots back from our round one leader, Kalan Strable of Cary, N.C., and delivered when it mattered most, backing up an opening-round 69 with a tournament-low 64 at Cramer Mountain Club to separate himself from the field. His eight-under final round proved to be the difference in a leaderboard packed with top junior talent.

Aidan Wilson of Winston-Salem, N.C., finished runner-up at 7-under-par (136) after rounds of 66 and 70. Landry Williams and Strable shared third place at 5-under-par (138), each putting together consistent two-round performances to stay in the mix.

A group of players tied for fifth at 4-under-par (139), including Drew Mercer, Ty Childers and Stephen Eastman, highlighting the depth of the field.

The final round yielded several low scores, but none matched McLeod’s closing push. His ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities and avoid mistakes down the stretch allowed him to pull clear and secure the championship. His final round included six birdies and an eagle on the par-5, 13th hole.

The HV3 Invitational continues to showcase some of the top junior golfers from across the Carolinas and beyond, providing a competitive early-season test on two distinct venues.

Special thanks to the HV3 Foundation and Harold Varner III for their continued investment in junior golf and their support of this championship. Appreciation also goes to Gaston Country Club and Cramer Mountain Club for serving as outstanding hosts and for their ongoing commitment to providing a first-class experience for players and families.

About HV3 Foundation

The HV3 Foundation launched in January 2019 to give back to less fortunate kids that could greatly benefit from increased access and opportunity in sport. Unfortunately, equipment, proper coaching, and access have become very expensive and unaffordable to many.

The mission of the HV3 Foundation is to bring awareness to the rising cost of entry and access to sports. In addition, the foundation will provide financial assistance for equipment, after school programs, instruction, camps, and various other avenues where an athlete can cultivate their passion.

Thinking About Tournament Golf? Here’s Where to Start

3/12/2026 7:51:00 AM

By Luke Johnson, Contributing Writer, Two Down Press

Making the jump from casual to competitve golf can be intimidating, especially when anyone who has ever signed a scorecard will tell you tournament golf feels like a totally different sport.

There is some truth to that - the rules are tighter, every shot feels heavier, and there is no picking up or taking a hole off - but in my experience, tournament golf is often less complicated than people make it out to be, especially if you take a thoughtful approach to getting started.

If you are thinking about giving it a try, here are a few things to keep in mind.

Pick an Objective

Not all tournament golf is created equal. There are events for players at every level, from one-day scrambles and local competitions to USGA qualifiers and state amateur championships.

Tournament golf is about testing yourself in a field and setting that matches your current skill level. Picking the right kind of event goes a long way toward making the experience enjoyable rather than overwhelming.

Learn the Rules

You do not need to be a rules expert, but one of the biggest differences between casual golf and competitive golf is accountability. You are expected to play by the book and post an accurate score.

Most tournaments provide access to a rules official or club professional if questions come up, but knowing how to handle common situations like relief from a penalty area or a cart path will save time and help you feel more confident on the course.

For players who want to go a step further, the Carolinas Golf Association also offers online and in-person Rules Seminars throughout the year. These sessions are a great way to better understand the Rules of Golf, ask questions, and gain confidence before stepping into a competitive setting.

Hit Cups

One of the more underrated adjustments in tournament golf is putting everything out. This matters most in stroke play, where there are no gimmies.

If you are thinking about playing competitively, make sure you are comfortable cleaning up short putts, especially inside three feet. You do not need to grind over tap-ins during casual rounds, but adding some pressure to your practice can help simulate tournament conditions and build confidence.

Start Small

We like to joke about Tiger Woods and his need for “tournament reps,” but the idea holds true. There is no substitute for playing under pressure.

Before jumping into a major event, look for smaller competitions where you can get your feet wet. Local events, charity tournaments, or one-day competitions are great ways to experience tournament golf without feeling like you have too much on the line.

The Bottom Line

Once you catch the tournament golf bug, it is hard to view casual rounds the same way. Competition adds focus, intention, and a different kind of enjoyment to the game.

If you are on the fence about trying it, my advice is simple: do it. And if you have questions about getting started, ask. Everyone starts somewhere.

Playing Opportunities with the Carolinas Golf Association
Compete at Every Level

The Carolinas Golf Association offers competitive opportunities for golfers of all ages, skill levels, and experience. From local one-day tournaments to qualifying for national championships, there's a competitive opportunity for every skill level.

CGA One-Day Tournaments provide an accessible entry point into competitive golf, featuring both gross and net divisions, individual and four-ball events for men and women of any age on outstanding courses across the Carolinas.
Ladies Four-Ball Play Days offer women the chance to pair up with a partner and enjoy a fun, competitive environment on some of the region’s best courses.
CGA Championships serve competitive amateur golfers as well as lower-handicap players looking to test their games against the strongest fields in the region. The CGA offers access to 45+ amateur championships events and 5 team match competitions.
USGA Qualifers and USGA Exemption Events provide pathways to National Championships. Elite amateur golfers can earn their way into USGA Championshis through USGA Qualifiers in the Carolinas or CGA Championships that offer USGA Exemptions to those champions.
Junior Championships and Developmental Events create pathways for young golfers at every stage, from those just starting out to players capable of competing on a national level. Junior competitive golf in the Carolinas is supported through the Tar Heel Youth Golf Association in North Carolina and the South Carolina Junior Golf Association in South Carolina.

No matter where you are in your golf journey, there is a place to compete and grow through the CGA.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can play in Carolinas Golf Association tournaments?
Most CGA events are open to golfers who have an active Handicap Index through a CGA member club. While some championships have age or handicap requirements, there are many opportunities available for players at a wide range of skill levels. Click here for a complete list of the CGA's competitive offerings.

What is the easiest CGA event to start with?
CGA One-Day Tournaments are the most accessible starting point for many golfers. These single-day competitions are played on outstanding courses across North and South Carolina and typically offer both gross and net divisions.

Do I have to be a low-handicap golfer to compete?
No. Many CGA events include net scoring divisions that allow players with higher handicaps to compete fairly. The goal is to provide competitive opportunities for golfers of many different ability levels.

How do I enter a CGA tournament?
The CGA utilizes Golf Genius Software to manage our tournaments. Each player, including partner(s) in a team event, need a profile in the Tournament System. This system is not a part of the GHIN® system. Your GHIN profile is not the same as your tournament profile.

You can create a Tournament Profile here. You will need your GHIN® number to create a profile that will enable registration for CGA tournaments. Entries are submitted online through the CGA website. Players can browse the full championship and event schedule, review eligibility requirements, and register for events directly from the tournament pages.

Do I need to know all of the Rules of Golf before playing?
You do not need to be a rules expert to get started. CGA tournaments have rules officials available to assist during play, and the Association also offers Rules of Golf seminars throughout the year to help golfers learn and gain confidence.

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