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Jarman Crowned King of the Hill in Thrilling Golf Showdown

Friends and family lined the course in golf carts, creating a lively gallery atmosphere. (photos S Jason Cole)

Excelsior Springs, MO — September 12, 2025
The Excelsior Springs Golf Course was buzzing Friday evening as friends, families, and golf fans lined the fairways for one of the community’s most unique traditions, the annual King of the Hill competition. Now in its fifth year, the event has grown into a true spectacle, with the excitement and pageantry rivaling the dramatic finishes of Caddyshack and Happy Gilmore.

All eyes on the green as competitors battled for the crown. (photos S Jason Cole)

A Format Like No Other

What makes King of the Hill so memorable? The players aren’t just competing in a standard round of golf. Instead, the night unfolds with a points-based system that combines three formats: Horserace, Skins, and Stroke Play. The result is non-stop action where every hole can shift the leaderboard. Spectators follow right along with the players, cheering every putt, groaning at the close misses, and celebrating dramatic shots under the Friday night sunset.

King Tim Jarman and loyal servant Austin Hardison (who finished 1st in the Horserace) pose for a picture. (submitted photo)

A Battle for the Crown

This year’s field of ten golfers delivered a fierce competition, but it was seasoned veteran Tim Jarman who rose above the pack. With composure under pressure and steady play throughout the night, Jarman racked up an impressive 55 points, claiming the title of 2025 King of the Hill.

Behind him, the competition was tight:

  • 2nd place: Austin Hardison (25 pts)

  • 3rd place: Dave Saura (16 pts)

  • 4th place: Marty Albertson (12 pts)

  • 5th place: Jeff Zimmerman (7 pts)

The Horserace portion saw Hardison claim the win, with Saura and Albertson rounding out the top three. Jarman also proved dominant in stroke play, posting the low gross score of 36.

Golf course regular Terri Irons shields her eyes from the evening sun to catch the action.

Community Spirit on Display

Beyond the numbers, what made the evening truly special was the community atmosphere. With families and friends trailing each group, laughter, applause, and friendly banter filled the course. Organizers Buck Byers and Brent Bishop once again delivered an event that was as entertaining as it was competitive.

As the Excelsior Springs Golf Course crowns King Tim, the community is already buzzing about what next year’s event might bring. “The King of the Hill has become one of our favorite nights of the year,” one spectator shared.

Want to be part of the action? The Excelsior Springs Golf Course hosts tournaments, leagues, and community events all year long. Stay connected and never miss a tee time by following them on Facebook at facebook.com/esgolf1915 for the latest updates, schedules, and course happenings.

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