Tough Conditions Greet Opening Event

Absolutely horrendous weather conditions greeted the Golf Channel AmTour as they teed off at Terry Hills GC on Saturday for the seasons opening event. A 34 degree wind chill and steady rain deprived everyone of any comfort and added an additional challenge to the course layout and fast greens.  Low score of the day was turned in by Steven Wedekind of Newfane in the Championship/Palmer Flight with a sterling 77 to eke out a one stroke victory over George McLaughlin of Friendship, NY.  2 birdies on the back nine proved to be the deciding factor.

In the Hogan Flight, last years Sarazen National Champion, Brad Bishop of Alden didn't let a double bogey closing hole prevent him from taking the victory with a solid 79 over Alex Kurilovitch of Oswego.

Tom Pettinella of Batavia held off a strong challenge from Jeff Bosasack of Oakville, Ontario and Dwight Hubbard Sr. of Rochester to take home the trophy in the Sarazen Flight recording an 85 to provide a 2 shot victory.

A solid 44 on the back nine propelled Donald Sheldon of Honedale, Pa with enough margin to make the long drive worth it and take the title in the Jones Flight.  In the Snead Flight, Orchard Park's Mark Rzotkiewicz's 104 was enough to lead him to victory.

A lot can be said about the toughness displayed by all the golfers in the event as conditions contributed to some pretty ugly holes for some of the particpants.  I saw a lot of class displayed by everyone and am proud to be affiliated with this group of golfers.

Next up is the Lockport Town & Country Club Open on Sunday, May 6th.  Deadline to register for this event is midnight on April 30th.