Zihao Jin Is The 2022 California State Open Champion
Bear Creek Golf Club | June 27-30MURRIETA, CA (June 30, 2022) – Zihao Jin charges back from a six shot deficit to claim the 122nd California State Open Championship at Bear Creek Golf Club after posting a final round of six-under par, 66!
144 competitors arrived to compete in the 72-hole Championship this week where scorching summer temperatures and windy conditions made for a challenging tournament that was packed with talent.
There was a stacked field on the heels of 54-hole leader Michael Block which setup for an exciting final round, with Jin of San Diego who separated from the pack and charged his way into the winner’s circle. Zihao rattled off four birdies on the closing nine to propel up the leaderboard and claim his first professional victory, taking home $10,000 plus a lifetime exemption into the California State Open.
After the awards ceremony Jin said, “I was just playing my game this week and wanted to see what would happen. I really like the layout here at Bear Creek and I knew that I would have to make a run to catch up to Michael. I texted my caddie last night that it was time to make it happen in the final round, and that’s exactly what we did out there today!”
Zihao Jin carded rounds of 65-73-69-66 to finish at 15-under par and two shots clear of the field.
Ryan Abuan, of Temecula earns the low-amateur honors at nine-under par, with round of 66, 73, 71, and 69 for a 279 total.
Special thanks to our product partners ZICO and Dr.Pepper/Keurig for supplying drinks and keeping the field hydrated for the duration of the championship. Grateful appreciation goes to host facility PGA Director of Golf, Tim Gardner, PGA Head Professional Kim Schilling, and Golf Course Superintendent Earl Kennel. Tournament Rules Officials: Ron O’Connor, PGA, Gary Albin, Lee Wortman, Harrison Heublein, Dan Johnson, and Bill Demnit.