June 22, 2008- Links at Hiawatha Landing

There was a slightly lower than expected turnout for our first NYSGA State Day of 2008 after some last-minute cancellations. However, despite the low number those who did play were treated to an immaculately kept course in exceptional, picturesque surroundings.

Despite the chance of storms developing later in the afternoon, the weather stayed fair and sunny for the most part which made for perfect playing conditions.

There were three handicap flights with a first and runner-up prize awarded for the best net score of each flight. A prize was also awarded for overall best gross score and an optional net skins game was available to all who participated.

Some of the competitors at Hiawatha Landing made a point to comment on how much they enjoyed the day and the experience of meeting new people, combined with an organized competitive format:

Flight 3 Winner Ken Sanford

“I had a blast. I think this competition was a great idea,” Sanford said. “This is the first time I’ve played competitive golf and it was great fun, and what a fantastic course! I’m already signed up for the next state day in Lake Placid, and I’m definitely going to tell by buddies at home about it.”

Flight 2 Runner Up Ray Pampilio

“I’ve had a great day and really enjoyed the experience. I didn’t necessarily play my best golf, but it was very good all in all.”

Gary Stoner- Travelled four hours from Buffalo to play.

“I really enjoy travelling to new places and playing different courses. I’ve met some good people and got to play a very nice course, I really enjoyed it, thanks.”

This was the first of six State Days that will take place over the next few months. To see a full list of 2008 State Days click here.

We really hope to see more of you out there at our remaining five State Day events. It’s a great way to meet new people, play some of New York State’s best courses, and enjoy some friendly competition, all for less than the regular course greens fee!

For more information about NYSGA State Days this summer contact Bill or Scott on 315-471-6979.

Results: To view complete hole-by-hole results for each player, click here.

Flight 1

Winner: Matt Watson, Bath CC, 74

Runner Up: Gregory Heidelberger, eClub CNY, 76

Flight 2

Winner: Jim Crittenden, Cornell University GC, 74

Runner Up: Ray Pampilio, Cornell University GC, 83

Flight 3

Winner: Ken Sanford, Mark Twain GC, 74

Runner Up: Brian Funk, Saratoga Lake GC, 79

Overall Gross Winner:

Matt Watson: 81

Skins Game:

In the skins game Matt Watson took two and Pete Moro, Ray Pampilio, and Gary Stoner each took one skin.

The entry deadline for the 79th NYSGA Women’s Amateur is fast approaching.  Entries close at 5:00pm, June 25, 2008.  Not sure if you sent your application in?  Click here to see a list of players already signed up for the championship.

As I look at the qualifying numbers for the NYSGA Junior & Boys Championships, I can’t help but wonder: What has happened to this Championship?  Only 20 years ago, when I first tried to qualify, there must have been well over 300 entrants in the qualifying field.  We have been fortunate to have a long list of champions that have gone on to Division I Golf and even successful PGA Tour careers.  The current field is a strong one…led by defending champion Dominic Bozzelli and runner-up Yaroslav Merkulov, but I can’t help but wonder why every junior golfer in the state doesn’t want to participate in our state championship.

Is it the fact there are more junior events statewide than ever before?  Is it the cost of traveling to the championship site?  I would be interested to hear your thoughts as my #1 priority is to grow this field and make it the championship it deserves to be.

BMo

The NYSGA has received a total of 199 entries for the 56th NYSGA Junior & Boys Championship.  Pairing information will be released beginning Thursday, June 19th and will be listed on the left side of the home page.

The deadline for entering the NYSGA Junior & Boys Amateur is 5:00pm on June 18.  If you have any questions or need help entering, please don’t hesitate to contact us here.  The entry fee is only $30.  Apply now!