Jay Don Blake was inducted into Utah State University’s Hall of Fame in 1991 after a successful collegiate career where he won the 1980 NCAA Golf Championship and was named the Collegiate Player of the Year in 1981. Blake, a two-time All-American, transitioned to the professional Tour in 1987 and had his best year in 1991, winning the Shearson Lehman Brothers Open and leading the Tour in putting. Throughout his Tour career, Blake earned over $5 million and went on to win three times on the senior circuit, accumulating $10 million in total earnings. In 2018, he participated in the Barracuda Championship and two PGA Tour Champions events, breaking 70 at the 2018 Sanford International.
Black Desert presented Jay Don Blake, who will celebrate his 66th birthday on Oct. 28, 2024, with an exemption to compete at the inaugural Black Desert Championship. This tournament, scheduled for October 9-13, will mark Blake’s 500th career Tour event, taking place in his hometown of St. George, Utah. Throughout the years, Blake has been a respected journeyman in professional golf, showcasing his skills and dedication to the sport. His career highlights include participating in events such as the L.A. Open, JELD-WEN Tradition, U.S. Open, and Boeing Classic.
In 1993, Jay Don Blake showcased his skills at the L.A. Open, hitting a shot out of the bunker at the Riviera Country Club in Pacific Palisades, California. Blake’s journey on the Tour was often accompanied by his wife and caddie, Marci, as seen during the JELD-WEN Tradition in Sunriver, Oregon in 2010. His performance at the U.S. Open in 2013 displayed his expertise in playing from bunkers on the 17th hole, showing his consistency and skill on the course. Blake’s dedication to the game was evident as he walked the fairways with his fellow players, such as Brandt Jobe, during the first round of the U.S. Open at Merion Golf Club.
During the final round of the Boeing Classic in Snoqualmie, Washington in 2012, Jay Don Blake made a significant impact with his tee shots on the 13th hole in regulation. His participation in various tournaments and events throughout his career has solidified his reputation as a skilled and accomplished golfer. As Blake continues to compete in professional golf, he remains a respected figure within the golfing community, showcasing his passion and talent for the sport. His upcoming milestone of 500 career Tour events at the Black Desert Championship highlights his enduring dedication and commitment to the game.
