The inaugural Western Shootout was a dream years in the making, brought to life by the determination of its founder, Glenmoor Golf Club’s PGA Professional Darci Olsen and the collaborative spirit of fellow PGA Jr. League coaches.
The concept of a multi state team competition had been percolating in Olsen’s mind for some time, but it wasn’t until a chance meeting at the PGA Merchandise show in February that the vision began to take shape. With enthusiastic support from Tara and Blake Isakson, Zach Abels, and CJ Schmid, the event quickly transitioned from idea to reality, attracting teams from Utah, Idaho, Wyoming, and Arizona.
The success of the inaugural Western Shootout held July 26-27th at Glenmoor and TalonsCove Golf Clubs was a testament to the power of teamwork and shared passion for junior golf by PGA Professionals, coaches, players and families. The event featured 17 teams and 88 players, ranging from 9 to 17 years old. The format, a two-person team competition, offered players an opportunity to compete in familiar PGA Jr. League style in a championship environment, something many might not experience beyond their home-state competition.
The highlight of the weekend was the camaraderie among players, coaches, and parents, particularly during the western-themed dinner party that brought everyone together in a celebration of golf and friendship.
Hosting the final round at Talons Cove, with the support of General Manager Kareen Larson, added an extra layer of excitement to the event. Not only did it provide a preview for the upcoming state championship, but it also showcased the quality of Utah’s golf courses. The Glenmoor Golf Club teams dominated the competition, claiming victory in both the 17u and 13u divisions, with Canyon Springs from Idaho finishing as strong runners-up. The event’s success was evident not just in the competitive spirit, but in the joy and connections it fostered among participants.
Looking ahead, the Western Shootout is poised to become an annual tradition, with plans already in motion for next year. The vision is to expand the event’s reach, rotating through home courses in Nevada, Wyoming, Arizona, and beyond, thereby increasing the travel team schedule and providing more players with the chance to experience the thrill of championship golf. The ultimate goal is to create a network of events that align with the PGA Jr League’s mission to offer meaningful, competitive opportunities for young golfers.