Hunter wins Staal Foundation Open qualifier

Jeff Hunter is headed back to the Staal Foundation Open.

The Thunder Bay golfer fired a two-over 74 Sunday in tough conditions to capture top spot in the first local qualifier for the McKenzie Tour-PGA Tour Canada stop at Whitewater Golf Course.

Former Canadian Tour player Walter Keating Jr. finished a shot back after shooting a 75. Robbie Untinen was two shots back with a 76.

“The course played tough, like it should for a prize so valued,” said Whitewater pro Matt Simmons.

Local golfers will have another chance to earn a spot at the Staal Foundation Open next month at the Keg District Open.

Ten Monday qualifiers will also get to play in the second-year event, a qualifier being held in July at Strathcona Golf Course.

Hunter shot a 14-over 158 in last year’s inaugural tournament and missed the cut by 15 shots. Untinen and Keating Jr. were also both in last year's field.