Greg Sanders: A Golfer’s Journey from Alaska to National Stardom

In the world of golf, few amateur players have made a mark as profound as Greg Sanders from Alaska. With a remarkable 11 State Amateur titles under his belt, Sanders is being hailed as the most accomplished golfer Alaska has seen in a generation. At 61, he has recently gained national recognition through impressive performances in high-stakes tournaments, establishing a legacy that may very well last generations.

A Historic Achievement at the U.S. Senior Amateur Championship

In August 2025, Greg Sanders made headlines by finishing as the runner-up at the U.S. Senior Amateur Championship held at Oak Hills Country Club in San Antonio, Texas. This historic moment marks not only a personal triumph for Sanders but also a significant achievement for Alaskan golf. His performance signifies the furthest an Alaskan has advanced in a national USGA event, a feat that speaks volumes about his skill and dedication to the sport.

The Road to the Finals

Before his monumental finish at the Senior Amateur Championship, Sanders had already showcased his talent at the prestigious Olympic Club in San Francisco, where he was notably the oldest competitor in the U.S. Amateur Championships. His experience there laid the groundwork for his stellar performance in Texas, culminating in a challenging battle against Iowa’s Michael McCoy in the finals, where he ultimately fell short, losing 3 and 2.

Next Steps: U.S. Mid-Amateur and Beyond

Despite the bittersweet conclusion of the Senior Amateur Championship, Sanders’ journey doesn’t end there. His impressive finish granted him an exemption to compete in the upcoming U.S. Mid-Amateur in Scottsdale, Arizona. This opportunity not only allows him to maintain his competitive edge but also offers a platform to compete alongside some of golf’s brightest stars. The excitement of potentially teeing off alongside notable names like three-time major champion Padraig Harrington is a testament to his rising status in the golfing world.

The Experience of a Lifetime

Reflecting on his extraordinary journey, Sanders expressed a mix of disappointment and elation. "It’s disappointing today, I suppose. But at the same time, it’s pretty sweet to get that deep," he remarked in a phone interview after the finals. His sentiment resonates with many who dedicate their lives to sports, where the journey often holds as much value as the outcome.

Golf: A Passion Rekindled

Sanders’ journey in golf has been a long one, commencing earlier in life before being sidelined by a demanding career as a petroleum engineer for over 35 years. It wasn’t until his retirement that he could focus on golf, committing significant time to hone his skills. "I was never a factor, because I just wasn’t any good, honestly," Sanders candidly admitted. His relentless focus and hard work have finally paid off, allowing him to compete with golfers he once struggled to keep pace with.

Consistency Amidst Challenges

Participating in the U.S. Senior Amateur for the fifth time, Sanders demonstrated remarkable consistency in his game. His most recent success coincided with winning his 11th State Amateur title earlier that summer, solidifying his status as a dominant force in Alaskan golf. This blend of experience and skill highlights how dedication to improvement can pave the way for exceptional accomplishments.

The Path Less Traveled by Alaskan Golfers

While Alaska is home to a handful of standout golfers, including Danny Edwards, who enjoyed success on the PGA tour, the geographical challenges of limited golfing months make significant development in the sport difficult. Sanders himself splits his time between Alaska and Arizona, allowing him extended opportunities to engage in competitive golf, something that his peers in colder climates often struggle to achieve.

A Community Rallying Behind Him

Throughout his remarkable tournament run, Sanders has felt an overwhelming amount of support from the tight-knit Alaskan golf community. "I just feel like there was this great northern push in my direction," he shared, emphasizing how vital community encouragement has been to his success. This camaraderie fosters a sense of belonging and motivation, enhancing his experience on the course.

A Whirlwind Month in Golf

As the U.S. Mid-Amateur approaches, Sanders prepares for yet another challenge in a packed schedule that also involved a recent tournament at Pinehurst Resort in North Carolina. "It’s been a crazy month for me," he explained, a clarity of purpose shining through as he continues to embrace the whirlwind of activity and competition in his life. With newfound momentum and community support, he is ready to take on whatever challenges lie ahead in his golfing career.

With his recent achievements and nationwide recognition, Greg Sanders has emerged as an influential figure in the golfing scene, representing Alaska on a grand stage. His journey exemplifies the unparalleled commitment and determination of amateur athletes striving for excellence—even when starting from the frozen north. As he prepares for his next tournament, one can only anticipate what this Alaskan golfer will achieve in the future, and how he will inspire a new generation of golfers to dream big and swing for the stars.