Western Pennsylvania has long been a proving ground for talented amateur golfers, but few have reached the pinnacle of success like Rick Stimmel. In 2024, Rick achieved the extraordinary distinction of being ranked the No. 1 senior amateur golfer in the world by the World Amateur Golf Rankings (WAGR), an accomplishment that cements his legacy as one of the most exceptional amateur golfers of his era.
Rick’s ascent to the top of the world rankings is a testament to unparalleled skill, relentless determination, and an unshakable commitment to both his craft and his family. Achieving the world’s top ranking is a rare and remarkable feat, but Rick’s journey to that moment was anything but conventional.
Beginning his competitive golf career at the age of 20, a late start for someone destined for greatness, Rick’s natural talent and unmatched work ethic quickly propelled him into the spotlight. By 1993, he was competing in the U.S. Amateur, the first of what would become 20 appearances in USGA events. His career highlights include a runner-up finish at the 1997 U.S. Mid-Amateur and an unforgettable appearance at the 2000 U.S. Open at Pebble Beach, where he briefly held the tournament lead after seven holes, a surreal milestone achieved during the same event where Tiger Woods made history with a 15-stroke victory.
While Rick spent some time competing on the PGA Tour, he discovered his true passion in amateur golf. Since regaining his amateur status in 2012, he has achieved remarkable success, particularly in senior competition. His dominance in 2023, at age 56, was nothing short of extraordinary. That year, Rick captured both the Player of the Year and Senior Player of the Year titles from the Western Pennsylvania Golf Association, a feat that seems nearly impossible to replicate. Over the course of the season, he won 11 tournaments and recorded five runner-up finishes, including two narrow losses in playoffs. I’m the kind of person who says “never say never,” but in this case, you could confidently bet the farm that no one will match this achievement again, unless, of course, Rick himself decides to do it again this year. Competing against college-aged “young guns” and coming out on top speaks volumes about his skill, consistency, and resilience.
Rick’s success extends beyond the regional scene. On a national stage, he’s amassed victories at prestigious events such as the Pennsylvania Senior Amateur, the George Dressler Senior, the Senior Porter Cup, and the Dixie Senior Amateur. These victories, combined with his relentless pursuit of excellence, culminated in his crowning as the No. 1 senior amateur in the world, a milestone that underscores his enduring dominance and skill in the sport.
But Rick’s greatest pride doesn’t lie in his trophies or accolades, it’s in his family. His wife, Julie, has been his steadfast supporter, balancing her own impressive career as an executive vice president at a Pittsburgh advertising agency while encouraging Rick’s passion. Their daughter, Madison, has inherited the family’s competitive spirit, excelling as a dancer and achieving her own crowning moment last summer by winning the World of Dance competition at Disney World.
Rick credits his family for enabling his success, particularly in the past five years as his medical sales career has given him the flexibility to compete at a high level. “Julie and Madison have been two of my biggest supporters,” Rick shares. “They’ve helped me achieve so many of my goals, and I hope there are many more to come.”
Rick lights up when talking about Madison, now 15, who balances her demanding dance schedule with school while still finding time to support her dad. One of Rick’s most cherished memories recently was when Madison joined him at the U.S. Senior Amateur in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Watching Rick compete sparked her interest in golf, and one of the first things she asked upon returning home was to go to the driving range with her dad. “That meant the world to me,” Rick says, beaming with pride.
Rick has no shortage of great stories, but some of the most heartwarming involve Madison. During a tournament at Sunnehanna Country Club, Madison and Julie arrived a little late to watch him play, catching up to him just as he was playing the eight hole, a par-4. Just as they approached the fairway, Rick holed out from about 100 yards for an eagle. Those watching the event gave out a roar. But Madison, who didn’t yet grasp the significance, remained unimpressed. When asked why, she innocently replied, “Isn’t Dad supposed to do that?” It’s a story Rick loves to share, highlighting the charming perspective of his daughter.
Rick’s humor and resilience extend beyond family stories. Last year, while preparing to compete in the Society of Seniors Ralph Bogart event, Rick carefully removed the head of his driver before his flight to Florida to protect it, only to leave it on his kitchen table. Realizing his mistake upon arrival, he didn’t dwell on the mishap. Instead, he purchased a new driver at a local Golf Galaxy and went on to win the tournament. For most golfers, such a disruption might derail their focus, but for Rick, it was just another challenge to overcome.
Now at 57, Rick continues to compete at the highest level, representing Western Pennsylvania with pride in events like the Palmer Cup, where he’s contributed to numerous victories over the years. While his 16 career holes-in-one and countless trophies are impressive, it’s his character, marked by humility, kindness, and humor that truly sets him apart.
As Rick looks to the future, he remains a source of inspiration both on and off the course. His story reminds us that true greatness isn’t just about victories but about the relationships we nurture, the challenges we overcome, and the joy we bring to those around us.
