TRGA Set for 2016 Season

After a memorable 20th season, the TRGA has a few changes in store for 2016. Season number-21 will include:

• a new tournament
• a new look for men's 5th flight
• a post-season event

It all starts with TRGA Opening Weekend. Two events on back-to-back days. Valley High Golf Club returns to the schedule on Saturday, April 30, 2016. The scenic course in Houston, MN is located about 20 minutes from La Crosse, WI. The next day, TRGA players will travel to Fox Hollow for round two of the double-header. Each event is a separate tournament, but there will be an un-official competition for players who choose to play in both events.

The 10-event regular season will continue with events at Viroqua Hills, Cedar Valley, Drugan's Castle Mound, The Golf Club at Cedar Creek, Hiawatha, Trempealeau Mountain, River Run and Forest Hills. "We couldn't be more pleased with the quality of courses on our schedule" said TRGA Executive Director Jim Socha.

The TRGA Championship will again be played at The Bridges and The La Crosse Country Club on August 27-28, 2016. For the second straight year, the Men's Championship winner of the TRGA Championship will earn an exemption into the 2017 WSGA Wisconsin State Amateur Championship. Scott Erickson from Sparta won the Championship last August and will be playing in the State-Am this summer. "That's a big deal" said Socha. "We're fortunate to have a great relationship with the WSGA. The exemption should attract some more of the best players in our area."

Also, the TRGA Men's 5th Flight will change to a net division, based on players TRGA handicap index. "We sure don't want to lose our higher handicap players who've been supporting the TRGA for many years" said Socha. "This change should make everyone more competitive." The change is being made on a one-year trial basis.

The TRGA and The Golf Club at Cedar Creek are planning a best-ball event for September. Stay tuned for more details!

In addition, the TRGA will continue to provide previews and recaps for all tournaments. And you can also look for a couple of new features:

• Director's Divot: A weekly column from Jim Socha
• Alternate Shots: A weekly column from your favorite players on the TRGA tour