Win comes ahead of JNNI 2025, offering local champs a shot at global play
Rising golf star and Jack Nicklaus and Golden Bear brand ambassador Neal Shipley earned his first professional title with a dramatic playoff victory at the LECOM Suncoast Classic, held on April 19 at Lakewood National Golf Club in Lakewood Ranch, Florida.
The 24-year-old topped Seungtaek Lee with a birdie on the fifth playoff hole, capturing his maiden Korn Ferry Tour win in only his eighth start. Shipley led the field with 30 birdies and finished the tournament at 18-under-par.
Shipley first garnered global attention in 2024 when he earned Low Amateur honors at both the Masters and U.S. Open, wearing the Jack Nicklaus and Golden Bear brands with pride. Since turning pro, his rapid ascent has been nothing short of impressive. With this win, he climbs to No. 3 on the 2025 Korn Ferry Tour Points List and becomes the second rookie and sixth first-time winner this season.
Representing the Jack Nicklaus and Golden Bear brands, Shipley’s breakthrough highlights a promising professional career and marks another proud milestone for the Golden Bear legacy.
As Neal Shipley continues to represent the spirit of excellence that defines the Jack Nicklaus name, local golfers will soon have their chance to shine at the upcoming Jack Nicklaus National Invitational (JNNI) 2025, happening on April 28, 2025, at Sta. Elena Golf Club in Sta. Rosa, Laguna.
The Jack Nicklaus National Invitational (JNNI) 2025 offers aspiring champions a rare and prestigious opportunity. Winners will be awarded the coveted National Champion Trophy, a significant honor in itself. In addition to this recognition, champions will enjoy an expense-paid golf experience in the United States, with the opportunity for leisure play at one of the country’s most prestigious golf courses. They will also receive exclusive one-day VIP access to the PGA Tour’s Memorial Tournament, personally hosted by Mr. Jack Nicklaus. This unforgettable experience includes round-trip airfare and VIP accommodations for four days and three nights, making it a truly once-in-a-lifetime reward.
As the Jack Nicklaus brand celebrates excellence in both global and local arenas, events like the JNNI continue to inspire the next generation of golfers to pursue greatness—both on and off the course.
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