The road to the 2025 U.S. Mid-Amateur Championship at Troon Country Club is officially complete. After a month-long marathon of 18-hole qualifiers at 69 sites across the United States and Mexico, the final field of 264 players—a mix of seasoned veterans and rising contenders—is set to tee it up in Scottsdale, Arizona, this September.

The qualifying process, which ran from July 16 to August 21, once again showcased the competitive fire of the nation's top amateur golfers over the age of 25. While exempt players like defending champion Evan Beck and three-time winner Stewart Hagestad watched from the sidelines, hundreds of hopefuls battled challenging course conditions and pressure-packed moments to earn their coveted spots.

Low Scores and Key Qualifiers

The scores across the country illustrated the high level of play required to advance. At many sites, players needed to go well under par just to have a chance. In Illinois, Brandon Holtz separated himself from the pack with a stunning 9-under 63 at Crestwicke Country Club, one of the lowest scores recorded during the qualifying period. Similarly, Michael Buttacavoli fired a 63 at Coral Ridge Country Club in Florida, highlighting the low-scoring potential on some of the friendlier setups.

California, a hotbed for mid-amateur talent, proved its reputation with low cut lines across multiple qualifying sites. In San Diego, Terry Ko shot an impressive 64, while a 66 was good enough for the final spots. Meanwhile, in New Jersey, Sean Seese carded a 64 to medal at Springdale Golf Club, leading a group that saw players advance with scores as low as a 67.

A number of notable names who have a history of success in the mid-amateur world successfully navigated the qualifying gauntlet. This includes former champions like Trip Kuehne, the 2007 winner, who secured his spot in a qualifier in Idaho. Cody Massa, whose brother Bobby was the runner-up in last year's championship, also advanced in his home state of Arizona.

As the qualifiers now shift their focus from earning a place in the field to preparing for match play, the final countdown to the championship begins. With the demanding desert layouts of Troon Country Club and Troon North awaiting, the true test of endurance, strategy, and skill lies ahead. The journey from local qualifier to national champion is a long and difficult one, and for these dedicated amateurs, the real work is just beginning.

Complete Qualifying Results

(Q: Qualified, A: Alternate)