Michael Block, the fan-favorite PGA pro who shot into the national spotlight during the 2023 PGA Championship, has added another important chapter to his inspirational story. At 49, Block claimed his fifth Southern California PGA (SCPGA) Championship title in striking fashion (by four shots) earning $15,000 and, more importantly, guaranteed opportunities to re-enter the PGA Tour scene.
This isn’t just another regional win. It’s significant for several reasons: it gives Block a spot in the 2026 American Express at La Quinta Country Club, likely a return to PGA Tour level competition; it grants him a chance to qualify via the Monday qualifier for the World Wide Technology Championship in November; and it reinforces his standing among professionals who, despite not being full-time Tour members, consistently compete at high levels.
“There has been a huge insurgence of really good players into the section who can really compete on the PGA Tour level,” Block said. “They have been pushing me hard.”
How He Pulled It Off
Block’s path to this victory was steady and commanding. He carded rounds of 63-66-71 across venues like the Arnold Palmer Course at Mission Hills and the South Course at Ironwood, leading from start to finish.
He joked about the competitiveness of the field: “I think there were 186 players … insane amount of PGA professionals who came out and played.” That level of participation shows how deep the talent runs, even outside the marquee Tour events.
Among the players who made the cut was Blake Schmitt, the head professional at Ironwood Country Club–one of the few who’ll be keeping an eye on Block and pushing him. Block needed to stay sharp, because with strong fields and local pros like Schmitt in play, margins are thin. Even though Schmitt didn’t win, his performance helps underline how deep the competition was.
“It’s a privilege having the ability to play at a high level,” Schmitt said. “But having the ability, it’s kind of a bonus to the industry, getting playing opportunities. I just look at it as a blessing.”
More Than Just Golf
Block appeals to fans not only because of what he does on the course, but how he does it. He’s someone who, despite being older than most contenders, doesn’t seem fazed by the lack of major Tour status. Instead, he puts in the work, shows up in sectional and regional events, and when given a shot, makes it count. His performances aren’t flashes in the pan–they build on each other.
His 2023 PGA Championship run raised expectations. He then parlayed that exposure into appearances at Tour events like the Charles Schwab Challenge, RBC Canadian Open, World Wide Technology Championship, and even played overseas. But in recent times, invitations have thinned out. This win restores some of that forward momentum. It’s a reminder that consistency, grit, and seizing every opportunity matter.
If Block takes advantage of the qualifier for the World Wide Technology Championship, that could come as soon as November, giving him a chance to re-enter the Tour season mix earlier than his confirmed January return.
Between now and then, staying sharp will be crucial. Whether that means playing more regional tournaments, sharpening all facets of his game, or building fitness and consistency, Block will need every tool in the box if he’s going to make the most of this second chance at Tour-level competition.