The Dogwood: Trey Rule wins in playoff

28 Jun 2014
by AmateurGolf.com Staff
see also: View results for Dogwood Invitational, Druid Hills Golf Club, Trey Rule Rankings
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Trey Rule

By Rory Sharrock, for AmateurGolf.com

ATLANTA, Georgia (Jun 28, 2014) -- It took four rounds, and two playoff holes, but The Dogwood Invitational finally showcased the same player who began and ended the day sitting atop the leaderboard.

Mercer University golfer Trey Rule teed off Saturday with a one-shot lead and concluded play with the trophy in hand, defeating Winthrop University’s Zach Seabolt to clinch The Dogwood Invitational at Druid Hills Golf Club.

Rule’s win didn’t come without its share of drama. When the pair squared off on the par-5 No. 18, Rule held a two-stroke lead at -22 and appeared to be in the driver’s seat for the title. Victory seemed a foregone conclusion when Seabolt misfired on an eagle attempt and had to settle for birdie. However, Rule, needing a relatively short par save for championship glory, left his putt short and made bogey, sending the tournament into a sudden-death playoff.

“I honestly didn’t think it would go to a playoff. When I hit that putt, I felt like I hit it with the putter cover on,” said Rule.

The duo moved to No. 1 for the first playoff hole where they traded shots and drew even with par scores. On the second playoff hole, the players returned to No. 18 where things began to unravel for Seabolt. After Rule blasted the ball down the middle, Seabolt hit an errant tee shot which sailed wide left of the fairway, landing in a rugged surface of twigs. Rule continued to stroll along uphill to the green while Seabolt needed two shots just to get back on the fairway. Upon his second trip to the green on 18, Rule was on point, sinking his shot and adding his name to the lure of this historic tournament.

“It really hasn’t sunk in yet,” said Rule. “My favorite golfer is Webb Simpson. He won here (2007) and he’s one of the reasons why I wanted to play in this event. I’m so thankful and blessed to win The Dogwood Invitational. God is great.”

This was the third playoff finale at The Dogwood in the last 20 years. The last two occurred in 1998 (Michael Kirk) and 2001 (Kyle Thompson). This also was the second longest playoff in the history of this tournament.

Results: Dogwood Invitational

1	Trey Rule	Eatonton, GA	1000	67-67-63-70=267

2	Zach Seabolt	Raleigh, NC	700	70-63-65-69=267
3	Billy Kennerly	Alpharetta, GA	500	68-68-64-68=268

4	Anders Albertson	Woodstock, GA	500	67-68-64-70=269
5	Jimmy Beck	Columbus, GA	500	68-67-67-68=270

View full results for Dogwood Invitational

ABOUT THE Dogwood Invitational

**Compete June 4–7 at Atlanta's Druid Hills GC. Entry includes daily meals, elite play, and exclusive events at one of amateur golf’s top tournaments.**

**Dogwood Invitational Overview**

Welcome to the Dogwood Invitational, one of the premier showcases in amateur golf, held at the historic Druid Hills Golf Club in Atlanta, Georgia. This year’s tournament takes place June 4–7, 2025, offering top-ranked amateurs a competitive and memorable experience steeped in tradition and Southern hospitality.

**A Legacy of Champions**

Since its inception in 1941, the Dogwood has crowned some of the game’s finest amateur talents. Among the prestigious list of past champions are: - Webb Simpson (2007) - Brian Harman (2009) - Dawson Armstrong (2015) - Brandon Mancheno (2019)

The event continues to evolve, blending rich history with a modern competitive spirit. Recent course enhancements and a thoughtful tournament setup reflect this commitment to excellence.

**Tournament Format & Player Experience**

- Format: 72-hole stroke play over four days - Venue: Druid Hills Golf Club – a classic layout offering a true championship test

Players will enjoy a relaxed, player-focused atmosphere, with top-level amenities and a strong community spirit. The Dogwood Invitational is proud to balance elite competition with a welcoming environment.

**What’s Included**

Your entry fee covers a premium tournament experience: - Daily breakfast and lunch during competition days - Exclusive social events for players - Access to a network of elite amateur competitors and industry presence

**Player Logistics**

- Walking-only event: Players may carry their own bags, use push carts, or bring a caddie - Caddies: Optional – players can request one during registration or bring their own - Player housing: Limited accommodations available to players only (caddies and guests not included)

**Why Play the Dogwood?**

- A top-tier national amateur event - Historic venue in the heart of Atlanta - Strong field, excellent hospitality, and a memorable week of golf - Opportunities to compete against future PGA Tour stars