2024 California State Open
Danny List Emerges Victorious
(PHOTO: Danny List Holds The California State Open Perpetual Trophy At Soboba Springs Golf Course, July 11th, 2024. Danny Cross / Southern California PGA) SAN JACINTO, CA (July 8-11, 2024)
Danny List of San Diego is the 124th California State Open Champion after posting a score of 21-under-par across four days of competition at Soboba Springs Golf Course.
One hundred thirteen players arrived to compete in the 72-hole Championship this week which is the oldest professional golf championship in the State. It was first contested in 1900 and won by U.S. Open Champion Willie Smith. Notable past champions include Jason Gore (1997 & 2004), Dennis Paulson (1990 & ’96), Kirk Triplett (1991), Roger Maltbie (1974), Jerry Barber (1959), Gene Littler (1954), Horton Smith (1934) and the legendary Walter Hagen (1915). Past participants include a virtual who’s-who of golf history from Rickie Fowler, Xander Schauffele, Corey Pavin to Lloyd Mangrum and Sam Snead.
List has etched his name into history after battling a stacked leaderboard to clinch victory by a single shot with a birdie on the final hole of regulation. List entered the day two strokes back from the lead, but produced a 6-under-par 66 to take the one-stroke victory. He takes home $10,000 and a lifetime exemption into the California State Open.
“It’s always pretty tough when you are coming back from two strokes down,” said List. “This means the absolute world to me. Eight months ago I had a stress fracture to my spine and didn’t know what my future looked like with golf. I’ve worked really hard to get back to where I’m here right now. I’m really proud of myself today.”
Low amateur honors went to Jack Townsend of San Diego after posting a 15-under-par total for the tournament. Townsend is a member of the San Diego State Men’s Golf team.
Congratulations to Morgan Deneen of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, for carding the only hole-in-one during the tournament on the 143-yard Par 3, fourth hole, during the second round.
Special thanks to our product partner Dr. Pepper/Keurig, for supplying drinks and keeping the field hydrated for the duration of the championship. Grateful appreciation goes to host facility Soboba Springs Golf Course, Director of Golf Frank Luchowski, and Superintendent Aaron Kelsey.
Thank you to our rules officials, Steve Asaki, Lee Wortman, and Gary Albin for their long hours and hard work over these past four days. This tournament wouldn’t be possible without their efforts.