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Midlothian Country Club logo. Home of the 105th WGA Junior Championship.
The 105th Western Junior Championship is now underway at Midlothian Country Club in Midlothian Illinois.
This historic championship was first played in 1914 at the Chicago Golf Club, making it the oldest junior championship in the United States.
Current PGA Tour players Rickie Fowler, Collin Morikawa, Scottie Scheffler, and veteran tour stars including Jim Furyk, Corey Pavin and Fred Couples have played in the championship.
But this years championship is the third time Midlothian has hosted the championship. Because in 1915, the events second year saw the championship held at Midlothian, the second time was in 1931. DeWitt balch won in 1915-Robert Cochran in 1931.
“We’re excited to bring the Western Junior back to Midlothian. A club with a rich tradition of hosting our nation’s most famous championships,” said Vince Pellegrino, WGA senior vice president of tournaments. ” So the players who have won at Midlothian are among the best in golf history. So we are confident this course will provide a great test for the next generation of stars.”
The club has been host to the other championships including three Western Opens (1901-1969-1973), The Western Amateur (1901,1917). The U.S. Open in 1914. The club is not only one of the founding clubs of the Western Golf Association, but one of the first 18 hole golf courses in the country.
Architect Ray Hearn-did the most recent renovation of Midlothian Country Club.
While Herbert Tweedie did the original course design in 1898, the famed Donald Ross added his touches before the 1914 U.S. Open. But it was Evans scholar architect Ray Hearn did the most recent renovation. Hearn lengthened holes, renovated 82 bunkers and created new sightlines and shot making options.
“I can’t think of a better way to celebrate the history of Midlothian Country Club than by welcoming the world’s top junior players for a championship of this magnitude,” said Club President Matt Barry. “On behalf of Midlothian Country Club and our members, we’re honored to host the 105th Western Junior.”
Ryan Cowan who finished 5th last year at The Onwentsia Club in Lake Forest. Will head up and outstanding field at Midlothian. Because there are 10 Chicago area local players in the field, this years champion could have Windy City roots.
But it’s Bowling Green Kentucky native Cooper Claycomb who carded a 5 under par 65-to take the first round lead. The 65 was one shot short of tying Leonard Thompson’s course record 64, in the 1973 Western Open. Chase Kyes of Birmingham Alabama is one shot back after shooting 66. Hans Risvaer of Miami Florida, was in third place after 3 under par score of 67.
The championship format is 36 holes of stroke play. But then the low 44 scores and ties, advance to a 36-hole final on Thursday. For more information see thewesternjunior.com.