Derek Bayley takes second in Washington Men’s Amateur

Bayley DerekCLE ELUM, Wash. – Washington State University senior Derek Bayley finished second Thursday, two shots behind Joe Highsmith in the 91st Washington State Men’s Amateur Championship, played at Suncadia’s Tumble Creek Club.

Bayley began the tournament Tuesday firing a 5-under 67 to share the first-round lead with Sean Fitzpatrick, Mill Creek, Wash. In Wednesday’s second round, Highsmith had a scorching 65 score, leaving Bayley two strokes off the lead in second place. In the final round of play on Thursday, Bayley pursued the lead finishing with a 69 for the day, one stroke better than Highsmith’s 70. In the end, however, Highsmith had the best total score, 205, squeaking ahead of Bayley’s 207.

To see the detailed standings, go to the WSMA website

For Bayley, the ending of this week’s tournament was somewhat reminiscent of 2016, when he tied for the championship, but ultimately fell in a marathon 6-hole playoff.  

Derek Bayley pursues lead today in Washington State Men's Amateur Championship at Tumble Creek Club
Derek Bayley pursues lead today in Washington State Men’s Amateur Championship at Tumble Creek Club

In July, Bayley earned second place at the Pacific Northwest Golf Association Men’s Amateur at Emerald Valley Golf and Resort in Creswell, Oregon. He was tied for first place going into the final-day’s 36th hole of that event in a battle with Emmett Oh from Calgary, Alberta.

Previously, he won the 2016 Idaho State Amateur, and the 2016 Rosauers Invitational, playing against the region’s professionals. He finished second in the 2016 Washington State Amateur, losing in a six-hole playoff. He also won the 2012 PNGA Men’s Amateur Public Links, and finished tied for 22nd in the Sahalee Players Championship.