(Coon Rapids, MN) –  Minnesota’s finest golfers will compete in the 92nd state open championship July 25-27 at Bunker Hills Golf Course in Coon Rapids. Kane Hanson of Detroit Lakes will try to defend his title in the 54-hole event. 156 competitors will try to take away his crown.

Among the competitors to watch include 2007 MGA Player of the Year Clayton Rask, who is now a professional playing the Canadian Tour, 2008 Minnesota Section PGA season points leader, Jeff Sorensen from Columbia Golf Learning Center, 13-time defending Minnesota Section PGA player of the year, Don Berry (Edinburgh USA Golf Club) and Chris Borgen (Hastings Country Club).

Also in this year’s field: 2006 champion Mike Barge (Hazeltine National Golf Club), 2004 champion Ty Armstrong (Glen Lake Golf & Practice Center) and 2000 Champion Ben Meyer (Medina Golf & Country Club). The last eight Minnesota State Open champions have been first time winners of the event.Change of scenery

The 2008 championship will mark the end of a run of 29-consecutive Minnesota State Open championships at Bunker Hills Golf Course. The 2009 State Open will be contested at Hastings Country Club and then return to Bunker Hills in 2010. The championship will then alternate between new sites and Bunker Hills, with the 2011 Minnesota State Open to be held at Rush Creek Golf Club in Maple Grove before returning to Bunker Hills again in 2012.

The PGA of America, through its more than 28,000 men and women professionals, has dedicated itself to the growth of the game. The PGA of America conducts more than 30 tournaments for its members and apprentices. Through a network of 41 Section offices, the Association maintains a total commitment to the PGA Professional, helping the membership meet the demands of today’s marketplace and addressing vital issues, such as pace of play, environmental concerns and accessibility.