The inaugural Bearback Invitational was held in July 2023 at Dakota Dunes Resort & Casino.

From the opening round, Taylor Davis made it clear he had not arrived merely to participate. Davis produced what many still consider the greatest round of his golfing life, firing a 93 and immediately taking control of the tournament.

Entering the final round, Davis led a tightly packed group that included Justin Julio, Brenden Fougere, and Michael Jennings. Meanwhile, David Ponich mounted a charge, producing an excellent second-round 85 to climb the leaderboard and put pressure on the leaders.

Despite the challenge, Davis remained composed. Backed by another score in the 90s, he maintained his advantage and became the first champion in Bearback Invitational history. The leather vest had its first owner.