Pearsall claims Seniors title on home course

BILLINGS — Newly-minted MSGA Hall of Fame inductee and Billings native Jerry Pearsall won his third Montana State Seniors title, shooting a three-day total of 12-under 204 (66, 72, 66) across three different courses in the Magic City.

Pearsall trailed leader Mark Houser of Bozeman by one stroke after the first day, at Eaglerock Golf Course, before his even-par 72 at The Briarwood moved him into a tie for first with Bill Dunn of Missoula on day two. 

The two battled on the final day at Lake Hills Golf Club and were tied at 10-under at the turn, with Pearsall holing out on the par-4 eighth for eagle and Dunn getting a matching eagle on the par-5 No. 98. 

“Golf today was so much fun,” Pearsall said. “Bill and I have gone back-and-forth before. He’s such a great player and competitor… today was one of the most fun matches we have ever had.” 

With three birdies on the back nine, Pearsall took the championship title by four strokes. Pearsall snared his third senior title, with previous victories in 2019 and 2024. He’s lived in Billings for over 40 years and this was a full-circle moment. 

“To have the final round at Lake Hills is special,” he said. “I worked here as a 13-year-old picking range balls, worked in the shop and was an assistant pro here for a while.” 

Gene Walsh of Whitefish Lake Golf Club won the Sophomore (63-69) bracket, shooting 74, 74 and 73.  He overtook first-round leader Kelly Knievel (71). 

Lee Levine out of Bozeman’s Riverside Country Club was Junior (70-77) champion with rounds of 75, 75 and 73; Tom Rea of Northern Pines Golf Club led after the first round, shooting 72. 

The Senior division title went to Robert Cummins out of Missoula’s Larchmont Golf Course. He had rounds of 78, 90 and 82. 

Scores and recaps can be found at MSGAgolf.com.