Indiana Golf Hall of Fame member, Craig Bowden, fired a 5-under (67) during the first round of the Indiana PGA Senior Open at Old Oakland Golf Club, putting himself in a three-way tie for first.
Bowden kept that energy and consistency going into the final round today at Old Oakland Golf Club, securing the win and closing out the round at 4-under par (68), 3 strokes ahead of the competition.
Bowden has not been able to play much golf because of a recent surgery on his elbow, but says that he has not been putting a lot of pressure on himself to play well lately, and just kind of easing back into it.
The most impressive part about Bowden’s performance, included the absence of anything over par.
“I played really solid for two days. I didn’t make a bogey, which is really consistent and tidy golf. I’ve played good golf since I turned 50, if I could just stay healthy” said Bowden.
Bowden finished with a total of 9-under par, in front of Scott Pieri and Quinn Griffing who both finished 6-under. Bowden, Pierre, and Griffing were all tied at 5-under par going into the final round.
“Scott and Quinn are top notch players. I knew it was going to be a tough day and I just went out and played a lot of center-of-the-green shots, and gave myself some opportunities, but I didn't force any shots today, I played cautiously aggressive. I kept my ball in play, missed two fairways, and three greens over the last two days. I didn’t putt exceptionally well, but I putted okay. I made the ones that I was supposed to and missed quite a few. It could have been a better week, but I’m very happy with where I finished” said Bowden.
Bowden has previously won the Indiana Open three times, but this is his first Senior Open victory.
“Anytime you win a golf tournament, it's spectacular. I’m a proud Hoosier, I love playing golf in Indiana, and I love playing golf with my friends here. Anytime you win a golf tournament it feels good and it's a great sense of accomplishment. There is nothing to replace winning, winning is a great feeling, and means you got it done that week. A lot of really good players. It means a lot and I'm hoping to keep playing” said Bowden.
For complete field results, click here.