CDGA Competitions | Chicago District Golf Association

Healthy Just in the Nick of Time, Sheppard Claims Third State Senior Title

The New Year is typically the time for those around the world to seek new beginnings, setting various resolutions and goals. Some stick with said goals, others go by the wayside before winter comes to a close.

For Tim Sheppard, this year’s start featured an extra set of challenges, including what is certainly the most terrifying day of his life.

“Boy, I’ve had some health problems,” an emotional Sheppard said. “I've been fighting a lot of different things, but I had a heart attack in January where, if I wasn't at the hospital, I probably wouldn't be here.”

Thankfully for us all, it was the right place at the right time for Sheppard and the 65-year-old lives to tell the story with a fresh perspective on life and his health at the forefront.

Since then, Sheppard has lost 25 pounds and has fought to get his strength, and golf game, back in typical form. An ensuing neck issue kept him off the course during the week leading up to the 40th Illinois State Senior Amateur Championship. The time off the course proved to pay dividends, as he hoisted the Earl R. Liff Trophy for a third time Wednesday at The Mauh-Nah-Tee-See Club in Rockford.

2026 CDGA CHAMPIONSHIPS

Each year the CDGA administers eight championships and related qualifiers with Handicap Index® requirements, including the Illinois State Amateur and CDGA Amateur Championships. Additionally, the CDGA conducts an array of qualifiers for USGA championships, such as the U.S. Open and U.S. Amateur.

CDGA Championship Schedule

2026 CDGA WOMEN'S COMPETITIONS

Debuting in 2024, the women's slate is anchored by two historic events that have transitioned from the Illinois Women’s Golf Association to the CDGA; the Illinois State Women’s Amateur and Senior Women’s Amateur Championships. The female-only docket will also feature four net Women’s Tour Edge Trifecta events and seven women’s/girls USGA qualifiers.

CDGA Women's Competitions Schedule

2026 CDGA SOCIAL COMPETITIONS

CDGA Social Competitions are casually-competitive events are constantly evolving and are open to all CDGA members, regardless of skill, gender or age. With four-person team, two-person team and individual net playing opportunities available amongst the various Social Competitions realms, there is sure to be an event suitable for every player.

CDGA Social Competitions Schedule

Competitions

40th Illinois State Senior Amateur Championship

Healthy Just in the Nick of Time, Sheppard Claims Third State Senior Title

Results

Championship Exemptions

Player of the Year Points

Local Rules and Terms of Competition

Championship Policies and Key Information

CDGA Social Competitions Entry Information & Policies