FORT WORTH, Texas – The National Association of Lefthanded Golfers, an organization dedicated to supporting and promoting lefthanded golfers through events, resources, and community, has announced the winner of its Annual National Lefthanded Golfers Tournament this year, and the site of next year’s national tournament.
“This year’s tournament delivered friendly competition and many unforgettable moments,” said Sid Miner, Chairman of the National Association of Lefthanded Golfers. “We were thrilled to welcome newcomers alongside many returning golfers. While the competition was exciting, the camaraderie and spirit shared by all made this event another one for the books.”
Colorado’s Joe Buchholz captured his first national title with a one stroke win over three-time champion Curtis James (Oklahoma). Buchholz made par on the tough par-5 final hole to win his title.
Canada’s Ron Frolek ran away with the Open Division shooting scores of 70, 73 and 71, bettering second-place finisher Brandon Schindler from Ohio.
Lane Hawkinson (Oregon) captured his second Senior title in three years by nine strokes over NALG Chair Sid Miner. Hawkinson had three rounds in the 70’s including two rounds of 73.
Mike Kemppainen (Washington) also won his second Masters title in three years over Canada’s Erv Froese. Kemppainen scored 230 to Froese’s 234. It was Froese’s third straight runner-up finish.
Jim Pfrogner won his second Grand Masters title to go with his six Masters titles and six Senior titles. Pfrogner scored rounds of 73, 76 and 72 for a 221 total which bested 1973 National Champion Jack Ruhs by 13 strokes. Ruhs was the Grand Masters champion the last two years.
Ohio’s Sharon Kaplan shot 312 to edge out defending women’s champion Angela Walker who scored 320.
This year’s Junior Division competitors were from the host state of Texas and competed over two rounds. Tanner Thornton fired a round of 75 the second day to edge out Neeve Goyal 158 to 160.
Additionally, the host for the 90th National Lefthanded Golfer’s Tournament September 25-27, 2026 was announced as Keller Golf Course in St. Paul Minnesota.
“We are thrilled to close out this year’s tournament by looking ahead to 2026 at the 90thAnnual National tournament at Keller Golf Course in St. Paul, Minnesota,” explained Miner. “This championship-caliber course boasts a rich history and tradition unmatched by any other public access golf course in Minnesota.
“Players will enjoy a challenging 18-hole layout with pristine bentgrass playing surfaces throughout. Stay tuned to our website for additional details.”
