Alker Edges Ridings at Inaugural Lehigh Valley Classic
Steven Alker shot a final-round 66 to win the inaugural Jefferson Lehigh Valley Classic by one stroke over Tag Ridings. He finished at 14-under 196 for his fourth PGA Tour Champions victory of 2026 and the 14th of his career. A 19-year-old local caddie, Whyatt O'Rourke, filled in after Alker's regular caddie Troy Martin became ill.
Steven Alker, a 55-year-old from New Zealand, claimed his 14th PGA Tour Champions crown in his 115th appearance. The victory was his fourth of 2026 and his third in four starts, following wins at the Rogers Charity Classic and The Ally Challenge and a runner-up at the PURE Insurance Championship.
Whyatt O’Rourke, a 19-year-old caddie at Lehigh Country Club, carried Alker’s bag after Troy Martin fell ill during Friday’s first round. Tag Ridings, 52, carded a closing 64 to finish second, his third runner-up finish on the circuit.
Alker’s late-career success may reinforce golf’s appeal to older athletes and fans, while his fourth win could raise interest in PGA Tour Champions events. The debut tournament and O’Rourke’s sudden caddie role could spotlight local club workers and inspire young people around Lehigh Country Club. Ridings’s near miss and Block’s sponsor-exemption finish may also give casual viewers compelling stories, potentially increasing attention for the circuit’s remaining 2026 schedule.