2017 Champion: Sam Ryder
A Rookie on the Rise. Although Sam is new to the PGA TOUR, he is well-known and respected in the world of professional golf. While competing on the Mackenzie Tour in the 2015 season, Sam won the National Capital Open to Support Our Troops to secure his spot on the Korn Ferry Tour. During his first season playing on the Korn Ferry Tour, Sam placed 2nd at News Sentinel Open presented by Pilot and T2 at Corales Puntacana Resort and Club Championship. However, it was during the 2017 season when Sam clinched his first victory at the Pinnacle Bank Championship presented by Heartland Chevy Dealers. With this win and several other strong finishes, including T2 at the WinCo Foods Portland Open presented by Kraft-Heinz, 3rd at the Panama Claro Championship, 4th at the LECOM Health Challenge, and T5 at the Bahamas Great Abaco Classic at the Abaco Club, he finished 2nd on the Korn Ferry Tour Money List and secured his PGA TOUR card for the 2017-2018 season.
The Man Behind the Swing. Sam was born and raised in Florida. He played collegiate golf in state at Stetson University, where he studied Finance and was a two-time Academic All-American. Following his graduation in 2012, Sam focused his efforts on becoming a professional golfer. Dedicated to being the best professional athlete he can be, Sam is passionate about how he fuels his body. Nutrition and fitness have always been important to him. Most importantly, Sam values his family and is especially grateful for the support he has received from his friends and family.