Des Moines had plenty to cheer about this past weekend as Iowa native Zach Johnson claimed the title at the Principal Charity Classic, finishing at 17-under par in his very first appearance in the tournament.
Johnson, who has deep roots in Iowa, made his debut at the beloved Des Moines event a memorable one, topping the field on the PGA Tour Champions circuit. The victory was reported by both KCCI and ESPN, marking it as one of the feel-good sports moments of the summer for the region.
The Principal Charity Classic is a staple of the Des Moines community, drawing golf fans from across the state each June. Having a homegrown champion claim the trophy in such dominant fashion added an extra layer of excitement to this year’s edition.
Johnson’s 17-under finish is a testament to his continued excellence on the Champions Tour, and the win resonated especially strongly with local fans who have long followed his career. For Des Moines, it was a proud moment — a favorite son delivering a championship performance right in his own backyard.
