U.S. Mid-Amateur Championship
The USGA made a wise decision to launch the U.S. Mid-Amateur in 1981, accommodating highly skilled amateur players who have yet to advance toward a professional tour. The event is open to male and female golfers aged 25 years or older with a handicap of 3.4 or less. Winning the U.S. Mid-Amateur comes with several perks, such as an invitation to the following year’s Masters, and past champions include Jay Sigel and Trip Kuehne.
The Northeast Amateur Invitational Golf Tournament
The Elite Amateur Golf Series hosts the Northeast Amateur, launched in 1962, which attracts scratch male amateurs by invitation. Although the event is less popular than some entries on this list, it’s an important stepping stone for the 92 players who receive an invitation, with the winner earning exemptions into four Korn Ferry Tour events, the U.S. Amateur and U.S. Open. Notable past champions include Dustin Johnson and Collin Morikawa.
Augusta National Women’s Amateur
The Augusta National Golf Club hosted the first Augusta National Women’s Amateur in 2019. In the last few years, it has become a crucial stepping stone for female amateurs seeking to go pro. The event features 54 holes of stroke play, and some of the notable past winners who are now causing waves in the women’s professional game include Jennifer Kupcho and Rose Zhang.
Myrtle Beach World Amateur
The Myrtle Beach World Amateur is unique and attracts over 3,000 players, making it the world’s largest amateur golf tournament. The event allows golfers of any ability level to join, with 11 divisions and handicaps ranging from 0.4 to 40.4. If you are an amateur player who doesn’t meet the strict handicap requirements featured in the above events but wishes to participate in a fun and challenging tournament, the Myrtle Beach World Amateur is perfect.
The Sunnehanna Amateur
Another unique entrant on this list is the Sunnehanna Amateur, considered one of the elite global amateur tournaments that has attracted legendary participants such as Jack Nicklaus and Arnold Palmer. The prestigious event draws its field from the NCAA, USGA Amateur Events, Walker Cup participants, and the top juniors. Interested participants pass through an 18-hole qualifier, with the top four players proceeding into the tournament.
Parting Shot
The above-listed amateur tournaments are an excellent way for amateur golfers to hone their skills, compete at a high level, and gain exposure on the global stage. Choosing which event to participate in depends on factors like your handicap level, location, and gender. Winning a reputable amateur tournament is one of the easiest routes to join a professional tour.