Ty Gingerich tees off on Hole 1 Photo: Andrew Biller for Indiana Golf
Indiana Golf Association
PERU, IN (June 17-19) – The 124th Indiana State Amateur Championship, held from June 17-19 at Rock Hollow Golf Club, was a gripping showcase of talent and resilience. With temperatures soaring into the 90s and high humidity, the competitors faced not just a challenging course but also grueling weather conditions that tested endurance and focus.
Vogt (L), Gingerich (C), Starnes (R) on 18th green.
The tournament format was two days of stroke play followed by a cut to the low 60 players, culminating in a final round of 18 holes on the third day. After 36 holes and a cut, the lead group consisted of Ty Gingerich (72-68), Cole Starnes (69-70), and Matt Vogt (68-71). These top contenders teed off at 11:18 AM on the final day, drawing a significant live scoring and media following.
Gingerich on Hole 10 Photo: Andrew Biller
Ty Gingerich’s remarkable front nine, where he shot 29 (-7), created a buzz among spectators and increased the intensity of the competition. Despite the record front nine, Gingerich was leading by only two strokes, with Starnes hot on his heels. Starnes’ eagle on hole 10 further narrowed the gap to just one stroke. Gingerich responded with a birdie on hole 11, maintaining his slender lead.
The drama peaked at the 14th hole. After Starnes had sunk a birdie putt on hole 13, he reduced Gingerich’s lead to a single stroke. His very next tee shot – Starnes encountered trouble overshooting the green and landing next to a boulder. His difficulties compounded, after a whiff and a penalty stroke, resulting in a quadruple bogey. This misstep allowed Gingerich to hold his lead comfortably through to the 18th hole, securing his victory.
Ty Gingerich, the 124th Indiana Amateur Champion, set a competitive course record at Rock Hollow Golf Club (-9). In the longest running amateur championship in the country, there are still records being broken.
In his post-win interview, Gingerich reflected on his performance and the intense conditions.
“I was aware of where I stood all day,” he said.
“I knew I’d shot 29 on the front and I think it was only up two and then we go to 10 and he [Starnes] makes Eagle I make birdie so I’m down. It was just kind of funny, but you know that’s how golf is sometimes.”
When asked about his strategy in the scorching weather, Gingerich emphasized the importance of staying dry and maintaining grip.
“Dry towels for the hands,” he noted. “You’ve got to keep drinking water and hitting good golf shots.”
Gingerich’s victory at the Indiana State Amateur Championship adds his name to an illustrious list of past champions such as Noah Gillard, Adam Schenk, and Eric Steger. Looking ahead, he is contemplating turning professional and pursuing opportunities on the Canadian tour.
“I’m still figuring out the details,” he mentioned. “I have some conditional status in Canada, but I need to turn pro to fully utilize it. The plan is to play in the U.S. Amateur and then transition to pro status.”
The 124th Indiana State Amateur Championship not only showcased exceptional golf but also highlighted the resilience and skill of its competitors. Gingerich’s triumph, achieved under challenging conditions, will be remembered as a defining moment in his golfing career. The blend of high-stakes competition and personal perseverance made this year’s championship a truly unforgettable event.
About The Indiana Golf Association
The Indiana Golf Association (IGA) is a leading organization dedicated to promoting and supporting amateur golf in Indiana. As one of 59 allied golf associations recognized by the USGA, the IGA administers various programs and championships, including the USGA handicap and course rating system.