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Cable Hollow holds inaugural Pro-Am tournament

Photos submitted to the Times Observer Pictured is the winner Ryan Swanson, PGA went the lowest, with a five-under-par 67 taking home the top prize alongside the new official Cable Hollow course record.

The inaugural Cable Hollow Invitational Pro-Am teed off recently and left a strong impression on players and spectators alike.

With 26 PGA professionals and 78 amateurs competing, the event was hailed as a “first-class” success.

From its organization to its elevated prizes and hospitality, the Pro-Am reflected months of planning and a community committed to showcasing its vibrant golf scene. Thanks to tournament sponsors, the event boasted an enhanced purse, gifts and conditions that left participants eager for more.

The highlight of the tournament came from Ryan Swanson, a PGA professional, firing a 5-under-par 67, setting the official course record on the current par-72 layout. Swanson’s performance not only earned him his first pro-am win of the season, but also vaulted him up three spots to second place in the Rolex WNYPGA Player of the Year standings.

“A sincere thank-you to everyone for joining us yesterday for the first ever Cable Hollow Inv. Pro-Am!” the Western New York PGA posted in a recap. “Swanson’s win marks his first pro-am victory of the season… alongside the new official Cable Hollow course record.”

Pictured from left to right are Tyler Martin, Pat Damore, and Curtis Knight (Cable Hollow Golf Pro).

In recognition of his record-setting round, the tournament committee awarded Swanson an extra purse and commemorative trophy, cementing his name in Cable Hollow history.

The team competition format of two best balls of four paid out to five teams, with even the fifth-place finishers winning back their entry fees–something that amateur Jack Bell from Kane Country Club said speaks volumes:

“I was impressed with $175 in pro shop credit per man for 4th place. What other tournaments do that?” Bell said. “I played Cable Hollow once, maybe 30 years ago. It won’t be that long again before I come back.”

Golf Genius provided real-time scoring and leaderboard tracking, adding a professional feel to the competition.

Several professionals praised the course conditions, hospitality, and the impressive work done at Cable Hollow under the leadership of owner Arthur Stewart, Curtis Knight, PGA, and Pat Damore, PGA.

Pictured are some more Golfers on the course.

“Everything was first class… golf course, tournament, food, staff, venue. I had a great time and will definitely hope to be on the invite list for next year,” said Craig Knight, PGA, of Shorewood Country Club.

“I grew up in this area and am very happy for what Arthur Stewart is doing for golf,” added John Rook, PGA, of Pennhills Club. “Cable (Hollow) now has a very good vibe.”

Amateurs were equally impressed. Kevin Ignatius, a local golfer from Cable Hollow, praised the organization, team format, and the dinner.

“The tournament was well organized… the dinner and dessert selections were fantastic along with the prizes and raffle items. All around, a great Pro-Am to be a part of. We’ll do it next year!”

John Bongiovani, from Kahkwa Country Club, echoed that sentiment:

Pictured is Pat Damore

“Cable Hollow Pro-Am was an absolute success… a great community asset with first-class facilities and prizes. A hidden gem in Western PA!”

The Pro-Am’s success came from not just a pristine course and generous sponsors, but also from the enthusiastic support of the local golf community and beyond.

“Cable Hollow has figured out how to make someone feel welcome,” said Tim Conklin, of Blueberry Hill Golf Course. “The tournament featured great prizes, amazing food, and a very well-run function. I’m anxiously awaiting to play the venue again soon!”

“It was a pleasure playing in Cable Hollow’s Pro-Am,” added Austin Stoddard, of Conewango Valley Country Club. “The staff was friendly and attentive, and Cable’s new pavilion is a superior venue.”

Looking ahead, Tournament Director Tyler Q. Martin said that the committee is already gathering feedback from professionals and amateurs to enhance the experience in 2026.

Pictured are some of the Golfers on the course.

“We intend to build on this year’s success by adding more prize opportunities and elevating the amateur individual competition,” said Martin. “Our mission is to hold the baseline while growing excitement and prestige around this tournament each year.”

The Cable Hollow Invitational Pro-Am is more than a tournament–it’s a community celebration of golf excellence in Western Pennsylvania.

“Cable Hollow not only provides a great backdrop to bring our stories to the screen, but its natural and historic beauty along with the rural setting stoke those very ideas,” said Martin, who is also involved with promoting local venues in film. “It’s about showcasing the best our region has to offer.”

“This wouldn’t be possible without this whole list of volunteers from the Tournament Committee; Curtis Knight (Head Professional), Patrick Damore (Teaching Professional), Bill Andrews, Dave Gayton, Tracie Gray, and Jordan Baker. The golf professionals “on property” at Cable Hollow are what make it possible for us to host a Pro-Am. Also, a big thank you to all our local tournament sponsors, It would not be possible without them! ” Martin said

Starting at $3.50/week.

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