Full Breakdown
Underdog Britt Bothast Claims First-Time Title at 100th Peoria City Men’s Golf Championship
8/3/2026, 12:45:54 PM
Championship Overview
The 2026 Peoria City Men’s Golf Championship marked its centennial edition. Seeded 13th, local native Britt Bothast defeated 3-seeded former PGA Tour professional Steve Taylor in a rain-marred final that extended to the 22nd hole before play was called off on Saturday and resumed Sunday. Bothast secured a 1-up victory after Taylor missed a birdie putt on the 18th that would have forced a playoff.
Player Backgrounds
Bothast, a Richwoods High School graduate, has competed for Illinois Central College and Monmouth College. Outside golf he serves on the RiverCup Foundation board and works as a project manager for Renewal by Anderson in West Peoria. He previously won a car with a hole-in-one at the Tee It Up For The Troops charity outing in 2023.
Taylor, a Canton High School alumnus, previously played on the Nationwide (now Korn Ferry) Tour after a stint at Florida Gulf Coast University. His amateur status was reinstated after his professional career, and he currently holds the Coyote Creek Country Club championship.
Match Progression & Statistics
The final match began on Saturday, with Bothast taking a three-hole lead early and later holding a two-hole advantage after the first 18 holes. Heavy rain caused two delays, suspending play after the 22nd hole. When play resumed Sunday, Bothast tied the match on the 20th hole, and both competitors conceded putts on the 21st and 22nd holes as rain intensified. The contest concluded on the 36th hole—a 1-up decision for Bothast.
Official Statements & Responses
He also reflected on the emotional weight of the win, recalling his late grandmother Donna Cox, who died on July 2, and his father’s influence on his game.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Growing up, she would caddy for me on Mondays,” — Britt Bothast
- “The shot around the tree, I give credit to my dad, he made us practice hitting out of trees when we were young,” — Britt Bothast
- “I remember when I was a kid, coming out here and watching my dad play in this tournament,” — Britt Bothast
- “I had a couple bogeys and Steve got right back in it,” — Britt Bothast
