The United States Disabled Open was held for a fifth time in 2023, and for the second time, Chad Pfeifer came out victorious.
Pfeifer fell behind by three strokes through eight holes Wednesday at PGA Golf Club. But he stayed the course while he failed to record any birdies, he did card 16 pars, to go along with two bogeys, to shoot a 73 and ultimately win by two shots over Jeremy Bittner.
Pfeifer lost part of his right leg while serving in the U.S. Army in Iraq in 2007.
“It means a lot to win,” he said. “I know I have a target on my back because a lot of guys are looking to try and beat me. That doesn’t always make it easy.”
Bailey Bish, of Tucson, Arizona, won the women’s division, her first win in a 54-hole disabled event. Her 88 on Wednesday was her best round of the week. Kelsey Koch was second, eight shots back.
“It’s an incredible feeling,” said Bish, who suffers from dystonia on her right side and uses crutches to get around the course. “Three years ago, I couldn’t even play nine holes, much less win a 54-hole tournament. I am so proud because I have worked really hard the last three years.”
World Golf Hall of Famer Dennis Walters of Jupiter, Florida, won the Seated Division by 18 shots.
The United States Disabled Open is run by the US Disabled Golf Association with the PGA of America serving as Presenting Partner of the Championship.
