BENTON HARBOR – Benny Cook, the Director of Instruction at Quail Ridge Golf Club in Ada, claimed victory at the 103rd Michigan PGA Professional Championship held at Harbor Shores Resort. With a final round of 3-under 68 on the challenging Jack Nicklaus-designed course, Cook captured his third state title, edging out eight-time champion Scott Hebert from Traverse City Golf & Country Club by just one stroke.
The final round was filled with drama, highlighted by long birdie putts from both competitors. Hebert’s 50-foot birdie on the 16th hole brought him within one shot of Cook. However, Cook responded with a clutch 40-foot birdie putt on the 17th hole, which ultimately secured his win despite a bogey on the 18th. “I knew I couldn’t relax with Hebert in the field,” Cook remarked, acknowledging the challenge of playing against a seasoned competitor like Hebert.
With this win, Cook took home a $7,800 prize from the $58,500 purse and earned a spot in the PGA Tour’s 2025 Rocket Mortgage Classic at Detroit Golf Club. Reflecting on his victory, Cook expressed gratitude for his return to form after struggling with his game last year. “It’s great to be back,” Cook said. “I’m done with the tour life, but winning this and getting another shot at the Rocket Mortgage Classic is exciting.”
Other notable finishers included Ryan Lenahan from Kendall Golf Academy, who finished two strokes behind Cook, and Tim Pearce from Birmingham Country Club, who finished tied for fourth. The championship also served as a qualifier for the 2025 PGA Professional National Championship, where the top nine finishers, excluding already-exempt players, earned their spots.
Joining Cook at the national championship will be:
Ryan Lenahan, Kendall Golf Academy
Cody Haughton, Red Run Golf Club
Tim Pearce, Birmingham Country Club
Patrick Wilkes-Krier, Kendall Golf Academy
Matt Thompson, Hillsdale College
Lee Houtteman, Leland Country Club
Nick Joy, High Pointe Golf Club
Dan Urban, Gull Lake Country Club (who secured the final spot after a playoff)
These golfers will compete next April at PGA Golf Club in Port St. Lucie, Florida, with a chance to advance to the 105th PGA Championship at Quail Hollow.
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