The Quail Creek Ladies Golf Association (QCLGA) hosted 60 members and their guests for the 2026 Copper Quail Classic, a three-day tournament held April 8 to10 under clear skies and ideal course conditions. This year’s theme, “Denim and Diamonds,” set a festive tone.
Festivities began Wednesday with a relaxed practice round, after which players gathered for appetizers and beverages before the start of the traditional horse race. After spirited eliminations, the top teams emerged: 1st-Mary Newman and Jan Ali, 2nd-Patty Harmon and Terry Warren; 3rd-Marie Cook and Lauri Fischer.
The QCLGA credited the success of opening day to many volunteers and the support of the Pro Shop staff. Director of golf, Josh Wilks and tournament chair, Bobbi Jo Rathvon were both specially recognized.
Thursday marked the start of official tournament play with the partner best ball round, emphasizing strategy and teamwork. Participants later enjoyed a lighthearted putting for prizes contest before gathering at the Madera clubhouse ballroom for a formal dinner.
The banquet staff earned high praise for exceptional food and service. After dinner, the ballroom transformed into a lively dance floor as instructors led an evening of line dancing in keeping with the “Denim and Diamonds” theme.
Friday’s final round featured a shamble format, blending team strategy with individual play. At the awards luncheon, the QCLGA announced the tournament’s top performers:
* Overall low gross (143): Brandee Hogg and Beth Wrigley.
* Overall low net (123): Brenda Allred and Michelle Curry.
Winners in each flight were acknowledged for their exceptional performances throughout the competition.
Closest to the pin honors were Brenda Allred, Darci Trimmer, Dianna Nelson, Cheryl Dietz, Jan Scissons, Constance Murphy, Stephenie Sacca, and Yolanda Stahl. Longest putt winners included Holly Canull, Sedeigh Khodaverdi, Jane Gibson, and Michelle Curry.
Overall champions received handcrafted copper birdhouses. Every participant received a DrizzleStik umbrella, a birdie-juice flask with custom engraving, and personalized cards showcasing artwork by member artist Frances Martin. Photographer Jeff Krueger provided professional team photos for each member and guest.
The tournament concluded with an assortment of prizes, including the popular money tree, which awarded winners a share of $1,800. Fifty raffle items and baskets—donated by members and community partners—rounded out the celebration.
The QCLGA extended appreciation to Josh Wilks and the Pro Shop staff of Reece Nilson, Nano Vasquez, Charlie Johnson, including Noah Gessler, grounds superintendent for their support throughout the event.
Committee co-chairs Ann Carr and Jean Kienitz, and 29 volunteers, were recognized for their extensive behind-the-scenes work.
This year’s grand sponsor was the Quail Creek Robson Resort Community. Additional sponsors included Sonomascape, Bill’s Home Service, Tucson Golf Cars, Pima Federal Credit Union, The Battery Guy—Tucson, Edward Jones (Jennifer Trosper and Eric Pudlo), Green Valley Cooling and Heating, and numerous individual member sponsors.
Hole sponsors were Alex Landscaping Services, Alicia Hiller, Edward Jones, Green Valley Senior Health, LM Flooring and Showers, LM Painting, State Farm Insurance (Nicole Ferrero), Zeta Salon, and numerous member sponsors.
The QCLGA looks forward to welcoming players back for another exceptional Copper Quail Classic next year.