Des Moines had plenty to cheer about this past weekend as Iowa native Zach Johnson claimed the Principal Charity Classic title at a remarkable 17-under par — and he did it in his very first appearance in the tournament.
Johnson, who has long been celebrated as one of Iowa’s favorite sons on the PGA Tour, made his debut at the Principal Charity Classic and wasted no time making it memorable. The victory was reported by both KCCI and ESPN, with Johnson finishing at 17-under to capture the title.
The Principal Charity Classic is held in the Des Moines area and draws some of the biggest names on the PGA Tour Champions circuit. For Johnson to win the event on his first try — and to do so on home soil — made the moment especially meaningful for local golf fans who packed the course to root him on.
It was the kind of homecoming story that reminds a community why local sports matter. Johnson’s win at 17-under was a dominant performance, and the fact that it came in his tournament debut only added to the excitement surrounding the event.
Des Moines can take pride in one of its own standing atop the leaderboard at a tournament that also raises money for charity, making the celebration all the sweeter for the community.
