Laurel, MS: The Gulf States PGA Senior Championship and Senior PGA Professional Championship Qualifier experienced high humidity and a blazing sun during both rounds on July 15-16. Twenty-one Senior PGA Professionals came out to play at Laurel Country Club.
Gulf States PGA Senior Champion, Jake Narro, PGA from Oak Knoll Country Club, also claimed low qualifier for the Senior PGA Professional Championship with a two-day score of 71-78–149. Emlyn Aubrey, PGA from the Centenary College, was the 2nd place qualifier with a score of 75-75–150. Alternates include Cliff Bailey, PGA (77-76–153), Leigh Brannan, PGA (76-77–153), and Reg Adams, PGA (78-76–154). Jerry Covich, PGA from Shell Landing Golf Club, took Super Senior honors with 79-84–163.
In an interview following the 2nd round, Jake expressed, “Winning this event was the icing on the cake. Being the President of this section, this is just another way for us to show how important it is to be a part of this section. Laurel Country Club is known for its challenging course. It is fun going to Laurel because it is challenging trying to survive. The birdie coming in on the final stretch is what separated me from the field and helped me secure the title.”
Jerry later commented, “The golf course was tough as usual, but fair, and in great condition. Jerry is always proud to win an event. The greens were very challenging, quick, and beautiful. Thanks to the Country Club for putting on this event. This course is so challenging that it will continue to be challenging 50 years from now. Thanks to everyone at the section and our sponsors to help make this event possible.”
The Gulf States PGA would like to thank our sponsors for this event: Jeff Jungers & Shannon Caverly, PGA of Yamaha Golf Car, Golf Channel, and the PGA Tour. Also, thanks to PGA General Manager, Andy Loving, PGA Head Golf Professional, Jeff Trecost, Head Golf Course Superintendent, Scott Hampton, and the rest of the Laurel Country Club staff for their support. We wish Jake and Emlyn the best of luck as they move on to the 36th Senior PGA Professional Championship, September 24-29, 2024 at Sunriver Resort in Sunriver, Oregon.