October 2, 2024
Nanaimo, BC (PGA of BC) - Eric Wang holed his putt on the 18th hole at Nanaimo Golf Club to close the two-round competition at 6-under par, unsure of the status of the tournament leaderboard. He wondered aloud: “Did I do enough?” As he headed to the scoring table, greeted by high-fives and congratulations, the reality of his victory sank in. Winning by an emphatic six shots, Wang secured the 2024 Srixon/Cleveland Golf Club Professional Championship presented by Nike Golf & Mobilicab title.
The Victoria Academy of Golf Head Teaching Professional dominated in Round One, making seven birdies and an eagle en route to a first round 65 (-7). Holding a three-stroke lead into the final round, Wang maintained his composure and poise. Lacking the spectacular highs of his first round, Wang instead fended off his competitors by avoiding mistakes in the difficult, rainy conditions. Shooting 73 (+1) on the second day, his steady play was more than enough to lift the Dick Munn Memorial Trophy at the pristine but challenging Nanaimo Golf Club. The win is Wang’s first career victory at a PGA of BC provincial championship, having tied as runner-up at last year’s Club Professional Championship.
Wang credited his calm and positive mindset for guiding him to the title. He ignored the leaderboard throughout the final round, instead focusing only on his own process and results.
“I’m really excited and proud of myself. It’s always a little challenging sleeping on a lead. I tried to enjoy it and have fun, and I did the best I could,” said Wang. “I didn’t even look at the leaderboard at all. I had no idea what was going on in the groups in front of us. I just stuck to the game plan, had a bit of nerves coming in, but it was very fun.”
Wang pointed to not only the competitive aspect of the event, but to the camaraderie between colleagues as a highlight of his week.
“This is a great group of pros in our industry. To be able to come out, network and get together, all those things make this event even better than just the golf, so we’re very fortunate.”
Earning runner-up honours, Sergej Dronov (Pacific Golf Academy) posted rounds of 68-76 to close his tournament at even-par. After a phenomenal first round which saw Dronov compile seven birdies, he was unable to match the same precision to begin Round Two. Through the first six holes, Dronov was 8-over par for the round, and rapidly sliding down the leaderboard. However, Dronov’s grit, resilience and mental fortitude were exemplified as he clawed his way back. Dronov played the final 12 holes at 4-under par to finish in second place.
Tied for third, Rob Tadey (Fairview Mountain Golf Club) and Jamie Moran (Crown Isle Resort & Golf Community) posted identical scores of 73-74. Four professionals finished at four-over par and tied for fifth place: Kevin Stinson (Cheam Mountain Golf Course), Josh Legge (University Golf Club), Mark Bicknell (Gorge Vale Golf Club) and Mark Kitts (Shadow Ridge Golf Club). Another notable competitor was Luke McKenzie (Ledgeview Golf Club), who finished in 13th place. Through the first 31 holes of the tournament, McKenzie made one birdie. He proceeded to birdie the final five holes in a row.
The PGA of BC is grateful to our incredible sponsors, without their support these events would not be possible. We thank title sponsor Srixon/Cleveland Golf and sales representatives Jon Kadin, Mark Lindsay and Ted Hanlon for their patronage and their presence throughout the tournament. The Association also thanks presenting sponsors Nike Golf & Mobilicab, with a special thanks to Mobilicab Territory Manager Kevin Orton for his warm attendance on the first tee. Furthermore, we thank supporting sponsor Fresh Golf Solutions and founder Scott Kolb for their generosity.
The Club Professional Championship saw several Maui Jim closest-to-the-pin winners, who take home a Maui Jim VIP gift card. The Association extends its appreciation to Maui Jim.
Thank you to Competition Advisor and Senior Referee Jack Croucher and Referee Brian Schreiner for their tireless efforts and dedication this week.
Finally, the PGA of BC extends its deep gratitude to Head Professional Chris Wilson, General Manager Charles Stephen, superintendent Jason Bird and the entire Nanaimo Golf Club team for their world-class hospitality.
To view the final leaderboard, please click here.
