Jack Denery, Lillie York Win Arkansas Golf Titles
The two golfers secured overall state championships at the Pleasant Valley Country Club tournament in Little Rock.
Updated on Oct. 23, 2026 in Golf
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Jack Denery and Lillie York claimed the Arkansas State Golf Association high school overall golf titles. Denery secured his win with a birdie on the 18th hole, while York finished the round with a five-shot lead.
Why it matters
These victories mark significant achievements for the young golfers in the Arkansas high school circuit. Denery notably earned his second consecutive overall state title through his final-hole performance.
Jack Denery carded a 5-under 67, while Lillie York recorded an even-par 72 to lead the field. Runners-up included Hogan O'Keefe at 3-under 69 and Jayden Tanner at 1-over 73.
The players
Jack Denery
He is a high school golfer who successfully defended his overall state championship title.
Lillie York
She is a high school golfer who secured the overall state title after previously finishing as a runner-up.
Pleasant Valley Country Club
Located in Little Rock, this venue serves as the site for high school state championships and professional tour events.
The details
Jack Denery navigated the course to finish at 5-under par, edging out the competition in the final stretch. Lillie York maintained a consistent performance to close out the event with a five-stroke margin over the field.
Timeline
October 22, 2026: Jack Denery and Lillie York won the overall state golf titles.
2016 and 2017: Connor Gaunt previously won back-to-back overall state titles.
The week following October 23, 2026: The Pleasant Valley Country Club hosts the PGA Tour Champions.
Season Trajectory
By winning back-to-back titles, Jack Denery matches the historical precedent set by Connor Gaunt in 2016 and 2017. This performance establishes a new benchmark for consistency in the Arkansas State Golf Association circuit.
The transition from amateur state championship play to professional tournament hosting highlights the peak condition of the Pleasant Valley course. Local players and observers can track the professional field's performance on the same greens next week.
The takeaway
These high school results demonstrate the high level of talent currently active in the state's junior golf programs. Spectators can look to the upcoming professional tournament to see how the course challenges elite players.
What happens next
The Pleasant Valley Country Club in Little Rock is scheduled to host the PGA Tour Champions Simmons Bank Classic during the week following October 23, 2026.
Further reading
For more on competitive matches, visit Arkansas Golf.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Northwest Arkansas Democrat Gazette.
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