An eight-shot deficit didn’t deter Islander Charlie Kern at the 89th Washington State Men’s Amateur Championship Thursday, Aug. 6 in Cle Elum. Despite trailing on the final day of competition, Kern managed to overcome second-round leader Joe Harvie and win the tournament trophy.

The 54-hole championship was held on the par-71 Rope Rider course at Suncadia Resort and was conducted by the Washington State Golf Association (WSGA). Kern shot a 71, 72 and 72 through three rounds to take the top spot with a combined score of 215. Harvie posted scorecards of 69, 69 and 79 for a three-day score of 217.

Harvie had extended a final-day lead over Kern to eight shots after eagling the par-5 second hole. But Harvie went 6-over par over the next eight holes, while Kern birdied holes six and seven. The two players were tied for the lead at even par while standing on the 11th tee, and it became a two-man race to the finish.

Past champions of the Washington State Amateur include Fred Couples, Alex Prugh, Brock Mackenzie, Kermit Zarley, Chris Williams, John Bodenhamer, and PNGA Hall of Famers Al Mengert, Bud Ward, Jack Westland and Harry Givan.

The championship victory closes out Kern’s amateur career. A recent graduate of William & Mary in Virginia, Kern will move to South Carolina in September, turn professional and attempt to qualify for the Web.com Tour and PGA Tour Canada.