​The Professional Golfers Association Hackers Tour (PGAHT)

Birdies! Birdies! Birdies! 

Team Birdie Brigade Is Truly Masterful

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On a picturesque yet windy day at Paradise Valley Golf Course, the prestigious Masters of Hack made its long-awaited return to the PGAHT, marking the first occurrence since 2011. Under clear blue skies and challenging gusts, the golf course showcased its flawless condition, setting the stage for an impressive display of skill and competition.

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It was Team Birdie Brigade that proved deserving of their moniker, emerging as the Masters champions. The team, comprising seasoned tour veterans Tony Mendoza and John Nunes, along with talented newcomers Greg Nunes and Brady Clark, demonstrated that a combination of powerful drives, accurate short game, and exceptional putting was the winning formula to navigate the intricate challenges of Paradise Valley. Their remarkable performance yielded an impressive tally of seven birdies and a solitary bogey, culminating in a final score of -6. Among the highlights of their round were John Nunes' extraordinary 40-foot birdie putt on the 9th hole, Brady Clark's chip-in birdie from 50 feet on the Par-3 12th hole, and the closing 20-foot birdie putt on the 18th hole by Tony Mendoza, which sealed the victory for Team Birdie Brigade.

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Securing the runner-up position was Team Bogey-Yaga, a new addition to the PGAHT. Comprising emerging tour players Thand Hlaing, Chris Lee, Mike Liao, and Brandon Choy, they demonstrated their mettle by carding birdies on holes 4, 6, 10, 12, and 13. Their sole blemish came in the form of a single bogey on hole 2. Although their performance was commendable, the team's chances were hampered by a few missed birdie putts during the crucial moments of the round.

Claiming the third spot was Team Death Penalty, consisting of veteran tour players Steve Hom, Chris Hogan, and Ryan O'Keefe, alongside newcomer Rob Lagomarsino. They finished with a highly respectable score of -2. Noteworthy birdies on holes 3, 7, 10, and 12 placed them in contention, but unfortunate late bogeys on holes 16 and 18 ultimately proved costly.

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Finishing in fourth place was Team HWA (Hackers With Attitudes), led by experienced tour player Eric Dolojan, accompanied by tour newcomers Kevin Wong, Mike Davi, and Edgar Suarez. Their performance yielded two birdies and a solitary bogey, resulting in a commendable finish at -1.

Team Hack That Azz Up secured the fifth position, concluding their round with an even-par score. The team, featuring Gerald Cabrera and Gino Susim, alongside Robert Holmes and Pat Samples, exhibited consistent play amidst the challenging weather conditions, particularly as the final group.

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Once again, the universally acclaimed 4-man scramble format proved to be a resounding success among all participants. The PGAHT envisioned the re-launch to encompass the creation of lasting memories, enjoyable experiences for all involved, and the culmination of the day with formal introductions and a delightful meal. Looking ahead, we eagerly anticipate the upcoming Delta Classic at Lone Tree Golf Course in Antioch.

Stay tuned for further updates as the event draws near.