Ethan Gao of Johns Creek, Georgia emerged as the 2025 State Fair Champion, delivering a consistent and commanding performance with rounds of 67-66-68 for a total of 201 (-15). Photo courtesy of the Sacramento Golf Council

SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG) - The Sacramento Golf Council proudly concluded the 101st California State Fair Championship at the historic Alister MacKenzie Golf Course at Haggin Oaks, with a thrilling display of elite amateur golf talent over three days of fierce competition.

Ethan Gao of Johns Creek, Georgia emerged as the 2025 State Fair Champion, delivering a consistent and commanding performance with rounds of 67-66-68 for a total of 201 (-15). Gao fended off a crowded leaderboard to secure the title in one of California’s most prestigious amateur events.

“I was struggling early, just felt off, but you kind of expect that when you are leading in the final round,” Gao said. “But I just kept grinding.”

When asked what being crowned the California State Fair Champion meant, Goa said, “It means a lot. I have not won a big tournament in four years and I feel like I am turning the corner right as the Stanford fall college season is starting.”  

A tightly-contested battle saw Taylor Knoll of Folsom and Luke Dugger of Davis tie for second at 203 (-13). Knoll made a final-round push with a 66, while Dugger’s solid 68 kept him in the hunt until the end.

Close behind in solo fourth was Kavi Marez of Carmichael, finishing at 204 (-12). Rounding out the top five were Jaden Hunter of Rancho Santa Fe and Tucker Sweeney of Pasadena, both tying for fifth at 205 (-11).

A field of 108 of the West Coast’s and beyond top amateur players competed across three rounds on the par-72 championship course, with the cut line falling at 1 under par (143) after 36 holes. The leaderboard featured players from across the United States and international competitors from France, China and Guam.

Notable performances included Reese Sato (Folsom), who posted a blistering second-round 63, the lowest round of the tournament, as well as Zach Mate (Elk Grove) and Kyle Dougherty (Irvine), who both finished at 206 (-10), tied for seventh.

The tournament continued its tradition of showcasing rising stars and seasoned amateurs at one of California’s premier public golf venues, named after its legendary architect, Alister MacKenzie.

“We’re honored to host this historic championship each year and proud to see such a deep field of talent,” said PGA Director of Golf, Mike Woods. “Ethan Gao displayed exceptional poise and consistency. He’s a deserving champion.”

The Sacramento Golf Council extends its thanks to the players, volunteers, sponsors and staff at Haggin Oaks for making the 101st playing of this storied event a resounding success.

Established in 1924, the State Fair Championship is one of California’s oldest and most respected amateur tournaments. Hosted annually by the Sacramento Golf Council, it has served as a proving ground for collegiate standouts, national champions and future professionals. Past Champions include Ken Venturi, Al Geiberger, George Archer and Kevin Sutherland.