tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-81546080225110402024-03-13T11:43:46.984-07:00Golf Channel Am Tour BuffaloGCAT Buffalohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18035567097359276107noreply@blogger.comBlogger23125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8154608022511040.post-10560616410492900142014-07-09T05:58:00.002-07:002014-07-09T05:58:16.882-07:002014 Season Kicks Off at Terry HillsAfter a string of season openers with less than desirable conditions, the weather finally cooperated and provided a day of comfortable temperatures and sunny skies as the 2014 season of the GCAmTour kicked off at <strong>Terry Hills in Batavia, New York</strong>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KvRZK7kwBy8/U702yHMYquI/AAAAAAAAAV8/YyixS9JlRoc/s1600/IMG_0344.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KvRZK7kwBy8/U702yHMYquI/AAAAAAAAAV8/YyixS9JlRoc/s1600/IMG_0344.JPG" height="200" width="185" /></a></div>
<br />
The <strong>Palmer Flight</strong> saw five golfers finish within one shot of the lead as Philip Swamp of Hogansburg, NY, came away with the victory by a single stroke over George Blanton of Manlius, NY. Swamp's finishing total of 75 was highlighted by an eagle on the par 4 8th hole.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-koEo9w3Ir9Q/U7021bJRs6I/AAAAAAAAAWE/RnNbgTqPjcQ/s1600/IMG_0343.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-koEo9w3Ir9Q/U7021bJRs6I/AAAAAAAAAWE/RnNbgTqPjcQ/s1600/IMG_0343.JPG" height="185" width="200" /></a><br /><br /><br />In the <strong>Championship Flight</strong>, Michael Pogor showed that he plans to continue his winning ways as his round of 77 provided a comfortable margin of victory. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hHBWqFIcFtI/U7023jlg1QI/AAAAAAAAAWM/LnHGPnuTG94/s1600/IMG_0345.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hHBWqFIcFtI/U7023jlg1QI/AAAAAAAAAWM/LnHGPnuTG94/s1600/IMG_0345.JPG" height="180" width="200" /></a><br /><br />Newcomer Michael Beauchamp from Utica, New York used a strong back nine to come from behind and eke out a 2 shot victory over another tour rookie Chris Mason in the <strong>Hogan Flight</strong>.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GK7pYDBzulc/U7025q5bvOI/AAAAAAAAAWU/XAaIdhv6S34/s1600/IMG_0346.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GK7pYDBzulc/U7025q5bvOI/AAAAAAAAAWU/XAaIdhv6S34/s1600/IMG_0346.JPG" height="168" width="200" /></a><br /><br />Malone, New York resident, Daniel Honahan took home the honors in the <strong>Sarazen Flight</strong> with a hard fought victory over Michael Murphy of Missassaqua, Ontario.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P2xZdqS84Fc/U7027XMrLMI/AAAAAAAAAWc/fgJJR-AQFkg/s1600/IMG_0347.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P2xZdqS84Fc/U7027XMrLMI/AAAAAAAAAWc/fgJJR-AQFkg/s1600/IMG_0347.JPG" height="200" width="181" /></a><br /><br /><br />Winning is nothing new to Buffalo resident Christine Corcuera as 91 proved more than enough to better the field in the <strong>Jones Flight.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></strong></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<strong> Next on the tour schedule will be Lockport Town & Country Club on May 4th.</strong></div>
GCAT Buffalohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18035567097359276107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8154608022511040.post-41617401691843502342013-07-02T05:47:00.001-07:002013-07-02T05:47:07.441-07:00Brian Davis Claims 5th Victory of 2013
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The weather
broke just enough to allow the GCAmTour to take to the fairways of the
outstanding layout provided at Greystone GC in Walmorth, NY for the 2013 Greystone
Open, Saturday, June 26<sup>th</sup>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>What had been a torrent of heavy rain ended the day as a sunny warm sky
and allow the players to finally enjoy a little warm on the links.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Greystone, regardless of all the rain thrown
at them this past weekend, provided prime conditions aside from a few wet
fairways, and the golfers responded.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Dbwwax9i7bY/UdLKYa0bVcI/AAAAAAAAAVE/LOGgswfRv2Q/s349/IMG_0312.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="192" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Dbwwax9i7bY/UdLKYa0bVcI/AAAAAAAAAVE/LOGgswfRv2Q/s200/IMG_0312.JPG" width="200" /></a>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Brian Davis</span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> continued his domination of the <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Championship Flight</b> with his 5<sup>th</sup>
win in 8 events on the 2013 season.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This
victory however was not decided until the final hole as he edged tour rookie,
Nick Boccio of Snyder by a single stroke.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pYmCxnMt9Gs/UdLKsLPsXlI/AAAAAAAAAVM/OVJwLYJyutI/s440/IMG_0313.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pYmCxnMt9Gs/UdLKsLPsXlI/AAAAAAAAAVM/OVJwLYJyutI/s200/IMG_0313.JPG" width="152" /></a>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The best
round of the day was turned in by <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Matt
DeLong</b> of Frewsburg, NY in the <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Palmer
Flight</b> with a 3 over par 75. Tied with 2<sup>nd</sup> place finisher, Roger
Waligora of Herkimer, NY, after 16 holes, DeLong’s birdie, par, birdie finish
secured his first victory on the GCAmTour and made the long drive well worth
it.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wCqRmmmQ48A/UdLK2Lov9bI/AAAAAAAAAVU/rQ-nc4ndmEk/s362/IMG_0315.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wCqRmmmQ48A/UdLK2Lov9bI/AAAAAAAAAVU/rQ-nc4ndmEk/s200/IMG_0315.JPG" width="185" /></a>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Tour
newcomer, <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">George Blanton</b> of Manlius,
NY kept his record perfect in the <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Hogan
Flight</b> with his 2<sup>nd</sup> victory in 2 events, this time a hard fought
win over his nearest rival Tom Pettinella of Batavia.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Tied after the opening nine, Blanton’s
ability to avoid a costly mistake led him to his victory.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f2Ik_QuJSVY/UdLLJGYH5VI/AAAAAAAAAVc/CAQtQaCcbbg/s448/IMG_0316.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f2Ik_QuJSVY/UdLLJGYH5VI/AAAAAAAAAVc/CAQtQaCcbbg/s200/IMG_0316.JPG" width="150" /></a>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">There may
have not been a birdie on the scorecard that <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Carl Assini</b> of Rochester, NY turned in the <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Sarazen Flight</b> but there were also no double bogies as well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This consistency proved to be the right
formula to earn the Assini player his 2<sup>nd</sup> crown of the season.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n4B_Upeq7Co/UdLLS7mgiKI/AAAAAAAAAVo/ehrjX8dXDUI/s409/IMG_0317.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n4B_Upeq7Co/UdLLS7mgiKI/AAAAAAAAAVo/ehrjX8dXDUI/s200/IMG_0317.JPG" width="163" /></a>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Winning is
really nothing new for <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Pekka Ojapalo</b>
of Oakville, Ontario.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The 2009 Senior
Snead National Champion, now playing in the <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Senior Jones Flight </b>recorded his 2<sup>nd</sup> tour win of
2013.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Robert Zehler of Williamson, NY
and David Yackoff of West Henrietta, NY finished 2 strokes back.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br />
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Next up for
the Buffalo Edition of the Golf Channel Amateur Tour is a date at Seneca
Hickory Stick on July 14<sup>th</sup>.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
GCAT Buffalohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18035567097359276107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8154608022511040.post-61332305498739021212013-06-16T05:34:00.002-07:002013-06-16T05:34:16.338-07:00Englert Claims National Championship ExemptionIt's been a long and arduous season to this point with the weather having a huge impact on scoring. Wind, rain, cold and the dreaded "cart path only" only added to the frustrations that the local edition of the Golf Channel AmTour players have had to face during the 2013 season. Though the "cart path only" element reared it's ugly head once again, the weather took a turn for the better and warm, sunny skys greeted 32 tour players June 9th at the popular Mill Creek Golf Course in Churchville, NY, and the scoring showed how welcome a change it was.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7T7kUB6Tf-Q/Ub2gJY_3H7I/AAAAAAAAAT0/x7GV9XtDUJ4/s1600/IMG_0306.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br /></div>
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7T7kUB6Tf-Q/Ub2gJY_3H7I/AAAAAAAAAT0/x7GV9XtDUJ4/s1600/IMG_0306.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7T7kUB6Tf-Q/Ub2gJY_3H7I/AAAAAAAAAT0/x7GV9XtDUJ4/s200/IMG_0306.JPG" width="158" /></a>Consistency has been the element that <strong>Ken Englert</strong> of Tonawanda, NY has always strived for in his game and it paid him great dividends Sunday as he claimed his 3rd victory of the year in the <strong>Palmer Flight</strong> (4 to 7.9 hdcp) and an exemption into the 2013 National Championships. Making the turn at 4 over, Englert shot 1 under par on the finishing 9 holes with a clutch birdie on 18 to hold off Matt DeLong of Frewsburg, playing his 1st event on Tour, by a single stroke. DeLong who carded 5 birdies on the day including birdies on 17 and 18, just couldn't overcome Englert's great finish.<br />
Congratulations Ken on your accomplishment.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eT3HzHSP4g0/Ub2j29Stf_I/AAAAAAAAAUE/x85rqdiwQ-o/s1600/IMG_0305.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><br /></div>
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eT3HzHSP4g0/Ub2j29Stf_I/AAAAAAAAAUE/x85rqdiwQ-o/s1600/IMG_0305.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eT3HzHSP4g0/Ub2j29Stf_I/AAAAAAAAAUE/x85rqdiwQ-o/s200/IMG_0305.JPG" width="187" /></a>The debut of <strong>Nick Boccio</strong> from Snyder, New York in the <strong>Championship Flight</strong> (0 to 3.9 hdcp) was an impressive one as he turned in the low round of the day with a solid one over par 73. Playing in a pairing with his former 3rd grade teacher, Brian Davis of Amherst, Boccio's 2 stroke victory staked claim he is definitely someone to keep an eye on.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6mzDS79Czj0/Ub2pax6hTVI/AAAAAAAAAUU/IN-5bulbG1E/s1600/IMG_0310.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br /></div>
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6mzDS79Czj0/Ub2pax6hTVI/AAAAAAAAAUU/IN-5bulbG1E/s1600/IMG_0310.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="194" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6mzDS79Czj0/Ub2pax6hTVI/AAAAAAAAAUU/IN-5bulbG1E/s200/IMG_0310.JPG" width="200" /></a>Returning to the winner's circle for the 2nd time this season was <strong>Jones Flight</strong> (16 to 19.9 hdcp) golfer <strong>Robert Zehler</strong> of Williamson, New York. His outstanding score of 79 left his nearest competitor a full 9 strokes back. A 6 year veteran of the tour, the victory is his 2nd in the last 3 events and an indication of how perseverance can pay off.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Qfem1INYFlA/Ub2sMDw-RkI/AAAAAAAAAUk/nx-1hv1cgDs/s1600/IMG_0307.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><br /></div>
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Qfem1INYFlA/Ub2sMDw-RkI/AAAAAAAAAUk/nx-1hv1cgDs/s1600/IMG_0307.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Qfem1INYFlA/Ub2sMDw-RkI/AAAAAAAAAUk/nx-1hv1cgDs/s200/IMG_0307.JPG" width="200" /></a>In the <strong>Hogan Flight</strong> (8 to 11.9 hdcp), <strong>George Blanton</strong> of Manlius, New York, made his Golf Channel AmTour debut a memorable one, parring the final 5 holes to hold off Mike Murphy of Missassauga, Ontario. Locked in a 4 way tie after the opening nine holes, Blanton's ability to avoid double bogeys keyed his victory.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OQ2a6fxcons/Ub2tur3mSRI/AAAAAAAAAU0/6SJl-nYRgEE/s1600/IMG_0309.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br /></div>
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OQ2a6fxcons/Ub2tur3mSRI/AAAAAAAAAU0/6SJl-nYRgEE/s1600/IMG_0309.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OQ2a6fxcons/Ub2tur3mSRI/AAAAAAAAAU0/6SJl-nYRgEE/s200/IMG_0309.JPG" width="200" /></a><strong>David Walker's</strong> even par opening nine holes proved to be too much for his fellow competitors to overcome in the <strong>Sarazen Flight</strong> (12 to 16.9 hdcp) as the Beaver dams native claimed victory in his 2nd tour event. Trailing by 7 strokes after the turn, Jeff Bossack of Oakville, Ontario made a valiant run up the leaderboard only to fall one stroke short after double bogeying the final hole. Walker, an artisan from the Corning area has a very unique golf related hobby, building glass putters in has spare time.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Next on the calender for the Golf Channel AmTour is the Heartland Open at PGA National at Swan Lake in Plymouth, Indiana. The optional 2-day Major Event is another avenue where a top 3 finish in your designated flight will gain an exemption into the 2013 National Championships. The local chapter of the AmTour will return to action on June 29th for the Greystone Open at the ever challenging Greystone Golf Course in Walworth, NY.</div>
GCAT Buffalohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18035567097359276107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8154608022511040.post-54555366168068312592013-06-16T04:11:00.000-07:002013-06-16T04:11:01.782-07:00Derek Johnson Claims 3rd VictoryCool, wet, and winds gusting up to 30 miles per hour added to the challenge presented by the picturesque Grand niagara Golf Course in Port Robinson, Ontario. 25 AmTour players from various regions of Canada and the United States teed it up on Sunday, June 2nd in their quest to gain entry into the 2013 National Championships. The weather conditions only added to the challenge facing them.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aGEyj-V0hMU/Ub2UNisUXaI/AAAAAAAAAS0/E8GHgT5N-aA/s1600/IMG_0304.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br /></div>
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aGEyj-V0hMU/Ub2UNisUXaI/AAAAAAAAAS0/E8GHgT5N-aA/s1600/IMG_0304.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="191" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aGEyj-V0hMU/Ub2UNisUXaI/AAAAAAAAAS0/E8GHgT5N-aA/s200/IMG_0304.JPG" width="200" /></a><strong>Derek Johnson</strong> of Cambridge, Ontario and Chris Dopp of Collingwood, Ontario went to an extra hole in a playoff that saw Johnson gain claim his 3rd victory of the 2013 season. With his victory, the <strong>Sarazen Flight</strong> competitor gained an exemption into the National Championships which will be staged on the LaQuinta Resort courses, a regular stop on the PGA Tour, in late September. Congratulations go out to Derek, a first year player on the tour, for his accomplishment.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_2lR-JeSIJY/Ub2WMxm-uXI/AAAAAAAAATE/ZwinRROLOtY/s1600/IMG_0301.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><br /></div>
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_2lR-JeSIJY/Ub2WMxm-uXI/AAAAAAAAATE/ZwinRROLOtY/s1600/IMG_0301.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_2lR-JeSIJY/Ub2WMxm-uXI/AAAAAAAAATE/ZwinRROLOtY/s200/IMG_0301.JPG" width="173" /></a>It's been a rather up and down season for <strong>Jonathon Gingrich</strong> of Williamsville, New York but his ability to manage the difficult conditions presented to him by the high winds and wet conditions, allowed him to enter the winner's circle for the first time this season. Gingrich, a tour rookie, took home the hardware by a 2 stroke margin in the <strong>Championship Flight</strong> (for golfers with 0 to 3.9 handicaps) over a hard charging Abraham Botha of Stoney Creek, Ontario.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vZw99M_dt78/Ub2YCmmnlRI/AAAAAAAAATU/lLCyHzl6ze4/s1600/IMG_0302.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br /></div>
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vZw99M_dt78/Ub2YCmmnlRI/AAAAAAAAATU/lLCyHzl6ze4/s1600/IMG_0302.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="196" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vZw99M_dt78/Ub2YCmmnlRI/AAAAAAAAATU/lLCyHzl6ze4/s200/IMG_0302.JPG" width="200" /></a>Five victories on the 2012 season and a promotion to the <strong>Hogan</strong> <strong>Flight</strong> (8 to 11.9 hdcp) initially prompted <strong>Tom Pettinella</strong> of Batavia, NY to wonder just how competitive he would be in the lower handicap flight. If his closing nine holes Sunday are any indication, his fears are alleviated. His 2 stroke margin of victory over Tim Kozlow of Buffalo, his nearest competitor, and his trophy shelf show that he is someone to pay attention to.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IXQF4-LIeOQ/Ub2bCSDkzOI/AAAAAAAAATk/y04M26W6M-c/s1600/IMG_0303.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><br /></div>
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IXQF4-LIeOQ/Ub2bCSDkzOI/AAAAAAAAATk/y04M26W6M-c/s1600/IMG_0303.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IXQF4-LIeOQ/Ub2bCSDkzOI/AAAAAAAAATk/y04M26W6M-c/s200/IMG_0303.JPG" width="188" /></a><strong>Pekka Ojapalo</strong>, a resident of Oakville, Ontario and a native of Finland, won the 2009 Senior Snead National Championship on the same courses that this years championships will be staged, to become the first National Champion from the local chapter of the Golf Channel Amateur Tour. Now playing in the <strong>Jones Flight</strong> (16 to 19.9 hdcp), the competition has been much stiffer. sunday his game was nearly unbeatable as he cruised to victory by a 10 stroke margin.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Next up will be the Battle at Mill Creek on June 9th at the always popular Mill Creek Golf Course in Churchville, NY just outside of Rochester.</div>
GCAT Buffalohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18035567097359276107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8154608022511040.post-51612721950839398042013-06-15T11:36:00.000-07:002013-06-15T11:36:14.801-07:00Closing Birdies Fuel Assini's VictoryRavenwood Golf Course in Victor, New York played host to the local edition of the Golf channel's Anmateur Tour on May 25th, the 30 tour players saw immediately why this is one of the favorite stops on the tour. Always a true challenge of a fgolfer's skill, cool, wet and windy conditions made the task of scoring a bit more difficult.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aBrBNnBJIbo/Ubyp1i25PtI/AAAAAAAAARU/spS4RJyKEus/s1600/IMG_0298.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br /></div>
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aBrBNnBJIbo/Ubyp1i25PtI/AAAAAAAAARU/spS4RJyKEus/s1600/IMG_0298.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aBrBNnBJIbo/Ubyp1i25PtI/AAAAAAAAARU/spS4RJyKEus/s200/IMG_0298.JPG" width="178" /></a>Trailing the leader, Derek Johnson of Burlington, Ontario, heading to the last 2 holes, Rochester's <strong>Carl Assini</strong> needed to make something happen if he were to have a chance at returning to the winners circle after a long victory drought. The <strong>Sarazen Flight</strong> golfer did just that, closing with birdies on both the 17th and 18th holes to claim the title. "The game has really been coming around of late but I never expected a finish like this" he said. One of the tour's original members, it good to see persistence pay dividends.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WkDgv_G882g/UbysinUQxrI/AAAAAAAAARk/GZYmYjKHEsw/s1600/IMG_0300.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><br /></div>
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WkDgv_G882g/UbysinUQxrI/AAAAAAAAARk/GZYmYjKHEsw/s1600/IMG_0300.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="183" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WkDgv_G882g/UbysinUQxrI/AAAAAAAAARk/GZYmYjKHEsw/s200/IMG_0300.JPG" width="200" /></a>Claiming his 3rd win of the year and an exemption into the 2013 National Championships, <strong>Donald Sheldon</strong> of Honesdale, Pennsylvania, used an "avoid the heather at all costs" strategy to out distance his fellow competitors in the <strong>Jones Flight</strong> with a exemplary well played 91. Sheldon has shown marked improvement in 2013 and the long drives have been well worth it this year.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fP-2xbLNuWs/UbyuRfqnGzI/AAAAAAAAAR0/_Crbimoi8SY/s1600/Frances.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br /></div>
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fP-2xbLNuWs/UbyuRfqnGzI/AAAAAAAAAR0/_Crbimoi8SY/s1600/Frances.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="186" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fP-2xbLNuWs/UbyuRfqnGzI/AAAAAAAAAR0/_Crbimoi8SY/s200/Frances.jpg" width="200" /></a>Don't tell <strong>Frances Venema</strong> of Burlington, Ontario that she has no business competing against the men. She showed all doubters that she's for real with an 8 stroke victory over her nearest competitor in the <strong>Snead Flight</strong>. One of 3 lady competitors on the tour this year, Frances took the lead on the 3rd hole and never looked back.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qaQmOARxFlM/UbyvtdTjETI/AAAAAAAAASE/sjeDHknQ8Tg/s1600/IMG_0296.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><br /></div>
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qaQmOARxFlM/UbyvtdTjETI/AAAAAAAAASE/sjeDHknQ8Tg/s1600/IMG_0296.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qaQmOARxFlM/UbyvtdTjETI/AAAAAAAAASE/sjeDHknQ8Tg/s200/IMG_0296.JPG" width="179" /></a>When <strong>Michael Pogor</strong> of Burlington, Ontario and <strong>Brian Davis</strong> of Amherst are in the field of the AmTour's <strong>Championship Flight</strong>, it's always a fun battle to watch. This day was no different. With the lead changing hands several times throughout the course of the competition, both players walked off the 18th tied for the lead. In dramatic fashion, Pogor's long birdie putt on the extra hole delivered him his 2nd title of the season.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jAM264d4HFc/Ubyxijzn8JI/AAAAAAAAASU/rst2a0vGkVg/s1600/IMG_0295.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br /></div>
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jAM264d4HFc/Ubyxijzn8JI/AAAAAAAAASU/rst2a0vGkVg/s1600/IMG_0295.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="185" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jAM264d4HFc/Ubyxijzn8JI/AAAAAAAAASU/rst2a0vGkVg/s200/IMG_0295.JPG" width="200" /></a>Trailing after nine holes, Buffalo resident <strong>Chris Dolce</strong> found the range and fired an event par 36 over the closing nine to edge Steve Wedekind of Newfane, NY by a single shot. The victory was Dolce's 2nd of the year and further solified his season lead in the <strong>Palmer Flight</strong>'s points race.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nMee3rlLwNM/Ubyy2JGkPdI/AAAAAAAAASk/-yk2xkL9074/s1600/IMG_0297.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><br /></div>
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nMee3rlLwNM/Ubyy2JGkPdI/AAAAAAAAASk/-yk2xkL9074/s1600/IMG_0297.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nMee3rlLwNM/Ubyy2JGkPdI/AAAAAAAAASk/-yk2xkL9074/s200/IMG_0297.JPG" width="200" /></a>Though the temperature may be a slight bit colder in Western New York than what Ponte Vedre Beach, Florida resident Jim McLaughlin may be used to, it doesn't seem to affect his golf game. His one stroke victory over Mike Murphy of Missassauga, Ontario in the Hogan Flight is testament to that. The victory was McLaughlin's second on the season.<br />
GCAT Buffalohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18035567097359276107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8154608022511040.post-90866128772814109852013-06-15T10:44:00.001-07:002013-06-15T10:44:15.525-07:00Horrendous Weather Doesn't Slow JohnsonCold, wind, and rain, the type of weather conditions that tend to keep most golfers at home in front of the television, didn't stop 27 Golf Channel Amateur players from taking on the test of John Daly's <strong>Thundering Waters</strong> in Niagara Falls, Ontario on May 5th. As difficult as the conditions were however, a few low scores topped the leader board.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-br3iHRQi6fQ/UbyeuIP9GXI/AAAAAAAAAQM/unCC0B1RKWE/s1600/IMG_0291.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br /></div>
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-br3iHRQi6fQ/UbyeuIP9GXI/AAAAAAAAAQM/unCC0B1RKWE/s1600/IMG_0291.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="188" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-br3iHRQi6fQ/UbyeuIP9GXI/AAAAAAAAAQM/unCC0B1RKWE/s200/IMG_0291.JPG" width="200" /></a>Playing perhaps his best round of the season, <strong>Derek Johnson</strong> of Burlington, Ontario proved to be no match for the weather much less his competition in the <strong>Sarazen Flight</strong>. The long hitting Johnson carded 4 birdies to shoot the days best round, a 76, and take home the title.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8tAnebDEM70/UbygDHERsOI/AAAAAAAAAQc/u8L1gGmFvYk/s1600/IMG_0294.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="196" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8tAnebDEM70/UbygDHERsOI/AAAAAAAAAQc/u8L1gGmFvYk/s200/IMG_0294.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
2012 proved to be a difficult season for tour veteran <strong>Robert</strong> <strong>Zehler</strong>. After an outstanding 2011 season, highlighted by a top 3 finish at the National Championships, his game seemed to desert him. If his 2 shot victory in the <strong>Jones Flight</strong> is any indication, he just may be back. "Better ball striking" provided by concentrated practice and a minor swing change helped him overcome a late lead by Chris Jerge of West Seneca and return him to the winners circle.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QC0mdsAQfrI/UbygNtYhxdI/AAAAAAAAAQk/pVbuFqRK9_Y/s1600/IMG_0293.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QC0mdsAQfrI/UbygNtYhxdI/AAAAAAAAAQk/pVbuFqRK9_Y/s200/IMG_0293.JPG" width="188" /></a></div>
Canada's <strong>Ted Brethour</strong>, a tour rookie had to go to a playoff to claim his 1st title in the <strong>Hogan Flight</strong>. West Seneca native, Larry Kavaugh overcame a rough start to shoot one over par on the finishing nine holes to necessitate the playoff only to be bested by Brethour on the extra hole.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HnrXgBAi57I/Ubyk9qMKoXI/AAAAAAAAAQ0/p2UFb34UgOQ/s1600/IMG_0290.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HnrXgBAi57I/Ubyk9qMKoXI/AAAAAAAAAQ0/p2UFb34UgOQ/s200/IMG_0290.JPG" width="174" /></a>In the <strong>Palmer Flight</strong>, Tonawanda resident <strong>Ken Englert</strong>, took great advantage of his "take what the conditions will allow" approach to gain a 4 shot victory and his 2nd win of the season. Both Chris Dolce of Buffalo and Phillip Swamp of Hogansburg provided an early challenge, as the weather conditions grew worse, Englert's steady play became too much to overcome.</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DUn57Zz2bkY/Ubymc5mD01I/AAAAAAAAARE/pIoWa09LZDU/s1600/IMG_0288.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="189" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DUn57Zz2bkY/Ubymc5mD01I/AAAAAAAAARE/pIoWa09LZDU/s200/IMG_0288.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<div align="justify">
A triple bogey on the par 3 tenth hole did nothing to deter <strong>Brian</strong> <strong>Davis</strong> of Amherst, NY as he rode a well played 78 to victory in the <strong>Championship Flight</strong>. One of the tour's most consistent players, he once again displayed a fortitude that makes him a truly worthy adversary.</div>
GCAT Buffalohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18035567097359276107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8154608022511040.post-28767806362206656122013-06-15T09:55:00.000-07:002013-06-15T09:55:06.845-07:00Corcuera's Eagle Keys VictoryThe picturesque <strong>Lockport Town & Country Club</strong> played host to the Golf Channel Amtour May 5th and provided a unique challenge as wet spring conditions left the rough long and difficult to play from. 24 golfers across 4 flights took the challenge on the tours 2nd stop of the spring.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T4Ty_KtVovI/UbyXi0BGkOI/AAAAAAAAAPU/0epHYS0M-NU/s1600/IMG_0287.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br /></div>
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T4Ty_KtVovI/UbyXi0BGkOI/AAAAAAAAAPU/0epHYS0M-NU/s1600/IMG_0287.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="195" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T4Ty_KtVovI/UbyXi0BGkOI/AAAAAAAAAPU/0epHYS0M-NU/s200/IMG_0287.JPG" width="200" /></a><strong>Christine Corcuera's</strong> eagle on the par 4 7th hole proved to be the decisive shot in the <strong>Jones Flight</strong> as she became the first lady to claim victory on the local edition of the Golf Channel Amtour. Charles Feldmann of Buffalo finished a shot back as he couldn't overcome an early deficit.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yGJ0jxjScOg/UbyY7jOnnII/AAAAAAAAAPk/AZQCpWz3j2w/s1600/IMG_0285.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><br /></div>
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yGJ0jxjScOg/UbyY7jOnnII/AAAAAAAAAPk/AZQCpWz3j2w/s1600/IMG_0285.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="181" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yGJ0jxjScOg/UbyY7jOnnII/AAAAAAAAAPk/AZQCpWz3j2w/s200/IMG_0285.JPG" width="200" /></a><strong>Andrew Esten</strong> of Oakfield, New York claimed his inaugural tour victory with a hard fought battle in the <strong>Palmer Flight</strong>. Steve Wedekind of Newfane led most of the day, but his triple bogey on the finishing hole opened the door just enough for Esten to claim the crown.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Xx1XO5kYmlI/UbyaBGLrbjI/AAAAAAAAAPw/C4hlLxnJSzk/s1600/IMG_0284.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="156" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Xx1XO5kYmlI/UbyaBGLrbjI/AAAAAAAAAPw/C4hlLxnJSzk/s200/IMG_0284.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
On his 2 years on the Amtour, <strong>Brian Davis</strong> is no stranger to the winners circle. Already exempt into the 2013 National Championships by virtue of a top 5 finish at the 2012 Nationals, his steady play event to event was again evident as he claimed his third 2013 tour victory in the <strong>Championship Flight</strong><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JUeHPGN9aI4/UbybKu-5IxI/AAAAAAAAAP8/uT69OMK_jrE/s1600/IMG_0286.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><br /></div>
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JUeHPGN9aI4/UbybKu-5IxI/AAAAAAAAAP8/uT69OMK_jrE/s1600/IMG_0286.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="178" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JUeHPGN9aI4/UbybKu-5IxI/AAAAAAAAAP8/uT69OMK_jrE/s200/IMG_0286.JPG" width="200" /></a><strong>Jeff Bossack</strong> of Oakville, Ontario didn't let a stiff back stand in his way as he parlayed a couple of well-timed birdies to out distance his nearest competitor, James Moore of Newfane, to claim victory in the <strong>Sarazen Flight</strong> by a comfortable 3 stroke margin.<br />
GCAT Buffalohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18035567097359276107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8154608022511040.post-44785467649243509522013-05-04T07:05:00.001-07:002013-05-04T07:05:51.747-07:002013 Terry Hills Spring Classic Features Playoffs<div style="text-align: center;">
A typical mild and pleasant day greeted the 41 golfers who competed in the opening spring event of the 2013 GCAmTour season for the Western New York and Ontario, Canada region. Though many swings showed rust, 2 contested needed playoffs to decide their flight winners.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-K9OUS-5cN3w/UYUAA7OR-8I/AAAAAAAAANo/M6fg8Q0-kok/s1600/IMG_0279.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br /></div>
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-K9OUS-5cN3w/UYUAA7OR-8I/AAAAAAAAANo/M6fg8Q0-kok/s1600/IMG_0279.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-K9OUS-5cN3w/UYUAA7OR-8I/AAAAAAAAANo/M6fg8Q0-kok/s200/IMG_0279.JPG" width="200" /></a>Steve Wedekind of Newfane, NY, successfully defended his Terry Hills <strong><em>Palmer Flight</em></strong> crown with a hard fought victory over Andrew Esten of Batavia in a sudden death playoff. A conservative approach, which by nature is not Wedekind's typical game, proved to be a decisive move in the playoff, as his par provided the nargin of victory. a total of 5 golfers finished within 2 shots of the lead in the most tightly contest contest of the day.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eBTC5cVurK4/UYULb4UnMCI/AAAAAAAAAN4/dhVZxs3cVd0/s1600/IMG_0283.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eBTC5cVurK4/UYULb4UnMCI/AAAAAAAAAN4/dhVZxs3cVd0/s200/IMG_0283.JPG" width="158" /></a><br />In the <strong><em>Sarazen Flight</em></strong>, James Moore of Newfane brought home his GCAmTour title by besting Richard Stein of Cheektowaga in a one hole playoff. Again in this flight, par proved to be the winning measure in the playoff. the victory provided Moore with great satisfaction through some very trying rounds in 2012. Consistency was the hallmark of his inaugural triumph.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WZQiKbeYGI8/UYUMpWZAttI/AAAAAAAAAOI/zQUl8ZYvnzE/s1600/IMG_0280.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WZQiKbeYGI8/UYUMpWZAttI/AAAAAAAAAOI/zQUl8ZYvnzE/s200/IMG_0280.JPG" width="177" /></a><br />Newcomer, Bobby Wegrzyn from Marcy, New York made good use of a pair of birdies to win the <strong><em>Hogan Flight</em></strong> over muti-winner Tom Pettinella of Batavia. Keeping mistakes to a minimum through the first nine holes, created a sizable lead that the rest of the field found too much to make up. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NcZ3nev7c2Q/UYUOfUMO_ZI/AAAAAAAAAOU/erqMrT8yPh4/s1600/IMG_0281.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NcZ3nev7c2Q/UYUOfUMO_ZI/AAAAAAAAAOU/erqMrT8yPh4/s200/IMG_0281.JPG" width="172" /></a><br />Starting the season on a very strong note with an 82, Donald Sheldon made the long drive from Honesdale, Pennsylvania well worth the trip and brought home the top prize in the <strong><em>Jones Flight</em></strong>. His 12 stroke margin of victory is one of the largest accomplished on the Buffalo GCAmTour and sends a message that this year may prove to be his best since joining the tour in 2008.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CXRLyDiUsK4/UYUQ1TQP96I/AAAAAAAAAOo/yY0PXBgZUdQ/s1600/IMG_0282.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CXRLyDiUsK4/UYUQ1TQP96I/AAAAAAAAAOo/yY0PXBgZUdQ/s200/IMG_0282.JPG" width="170" /></a>Marty Gound opened his season in the <strong><em>Snead Flight</em></strong> with a well played 92 and took home the trophy by taking the margin over Frances Venema from Cambridge, Ontario, one of two ladies who competed on the day. The Akron, New York resident used his local course knowledge to his best advantage in winning his first GCAmTour career victory.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BFcJWiY4I00/UYUSmSHOjzI/AAAAAAAAAO0/vfGrBuVR2lE/s1600/IMG_0278.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BFcJWiY4I00/UYUSmSHOjzI/AAAAAAAAAO0/vfGrBuVR2lE/s200/IMG_0278.JPG" width="182" /></a><br />Winning on the Golf Channel Tour is nothing new for Burlington, Ontario native Michael Pogor as he carded the day's best round with a 76 and a 2 shot margin of victory over another multi winner, Brian Davis of Amherst in the <strong><em>Championship Flight</em></strong>. Finding himself trailing Davis by 3 shots after bogeying the first 2 holes, Pogor stuck to his game plan of simply keeping mistakes to a minimum which by days end proved to be the successful formula for victory.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Next up for the GCAmTour is the Lockport Town & CC Open in Lockport, NY on Sunday, May </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
5th at noon.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
GCAT Buffalohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18035567097359276107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8154608022511040.post-65597185334232810102013-04-14T13:30:00.000-07:002013-04-14T13:30:04.051-07:002013 Spring Tour Season OpensAfter a hard northern winter, the weather is finally showing some promising signs which means the tour season is just around the corner. Though I am one of those who spend a good portion of my winter honing my own golf skills in Florida, the addition of close to 20 new tour members has got me excited and glad to be back up north. By the way, I did record my 3rd career hole in one this winter, but it's time to put the sticks away and get this season off the ground.<br />
<br />
The first event of the year, the Terry Hills Spring Classic, is set for April 28th. Registration for this event closes at midnight, next Sunday, the 21st so now's the time to register. One of the more popular events on the schedule, Terry Hills Golf Course is not long but provides a fun test of skills and the flight winners usually have to battle some interesting weather elements to capture their crown. <br />
<br />
We've seen registration for the 2 Day Majors reach unprecended levels with the majority sold out. If you still have a desire to compete in any of them, I suggest you get on the waiting for that particular event soon. A good number of the golfers that are on the waiting lists, get an opportunity to play though contact for an opening could be relatively last minute. You won't be charged the registration fee until you are officially entered into the field.<br />
<br />
The National Champonships this year are being held at PGA West at the LaQuinta Resort near Palm Springs, California with the Open Championships scheduled for Sept. 22 - Sept. 25, and the Senior Championships scheduled for Sept. 28 - Oct. 1. The Nationals are an awesome experience that many of our tour players will attest to. So plan your summer accordingly, there are a number of ways that you can qualify (see the Players Handbook on line).<br />
<br />
I sincerely hope to see you at the Terry Hills Spring Classic.<br />
<br />
Paul<br />
<br />
GCAT Buffalohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18035567097359276107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8154608022511040.post-9873221873716436942012-10-02T07:59:00.004-07:002012-10-02T07:59:53.221-07:002012 National Championships<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_hCAsS9v3zE/UGrozM8LnGI/AAAAAAAAALM/y9THmLcimdI/s1600/Club+House+at+TPC+Sawgrass.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_hCAsS9v3zE/UGrozM8LnGI/AAAAAAAAALM/y9THmLcimdI/s200/Club+House+at+TPC+Sawgrass.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Club House at TPC Sawgrass</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
15 golfers from the 2012 Golf Channel AmTour Buffalo Tour made the trip to Ponte Vedra, Florida to compete for a national title in the 2012 Championships and all came away with what can only be described as the "experience of a life time". Just the act of qualifying is a feat in itself as the right is earned by performing well in a number of events over the course of the entire 2012 season. The National Championships are contested over 4 days on 4 separate courses and bring together over 1,100 golfers from all over the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico.</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The 1st week saw the Senior Division players arrive for the challenge. The player dinner featured the Golf Channels resident humorist David Feherty who entertained the golfers and their guests with a heart warming and humorous diatribe about his experiences regarding the charity that he founded, the "Troops First Foundation". The AmTour presented him with a check for $63,450 for his foundation, raised during the season from 50/50 raffles at all the Major Events.</div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qs_QApLuv9Q/UGrwfV15nFI/AAAAAAAAALg/rQqduQ5vJnM/s1600/Feherty.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="96" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qs_QApLuv9Q/UGrwfV15nFI/AAAAAAAAALg/rQqduQ5vJnM/s200/Feherty.png" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">David Feherty</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Feherty addressed the golfers in attendance with a little pep talk to help them through the arduous week ahead. "The tournament starts tomorrow, but I just want you to know this," Feherty said. "This is golf. You're meant to suck and you will suck this week."</div>
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aaPYSiOy7hk/UGroxoiNRzI/AAAAAAAAALE/vxlNLi3Phyc/s1600/17th+Hole+Sawgrass.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aaPYSiOy7hk/UGroxoiNRzI/AAAAAAAAALE/vxlNLi3Phyc/s200/17th+Hole+Sawgrass.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Infamous 17th</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Once on the golf course, the atmosphere changed from relaxed to serious. The infamous par 3 17th at the TPC Sawgrass Stadium Course, greeted it's competitors with a challenge from 138 yards. To say the least, some found it to be more of a task than others as one golfer carded a "32" and another a "24." Regardless, the games were on and before weeks end, 6 Senior Champions would be crowned in 6 separate flights contested over the 4 days on the TPC's Stadium and Dye Valley courses and the Ponte Vedra Inn and Club's Ocean and Laggon courses.</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Competing from the Buffalo Tour were 2009 National Champion Pekka Ojapalo from Oakvill, Ontario, 2010 3rd place finisher in the Senior Snead Flight Robert Zehler of Williamson, NY, Rick Stein of Cheektowaga, ken alexander from Henrietta, Jack Potter from Macedon, Donald Sheldon of Honesdale, Pa, and Dwight Trafford of Toronto, Ontario. Rick Stein led the Senior Sarazen Flight entering the final round but was unable to keep the lead and finished in 7th place.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NIKSb5dENYg/UGr5sx6P3SI/AAAAAAAAAL0/_6WQsAoQYCA/s1600/Sparks+and+Rymer.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="97" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NIKSb5dENYg/UGr5sx6P3SI/AAAAAAAAAL0/_6WQsAoQYCA/s200/Sparks+and+Rymer.png" width="200" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Stephie Sparks and Charlie Rymer co-hosted opening festivities for the Open Division of the National Championships on the 2nd week. At a dinner welcoming a record 636 players to the 2012 event, four of the dozen women of this year's Big Break Atlantis were special guests and shared their experiences, hopes and dreams with the packed ballroom at the Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa, which was the host hotel and headquarters for the event.</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PW7eO6ynew0/UGr7moSzapI/AAAAAAAAAL8/NaTdrAmF13c/s1600/Valley+Course+5th.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br /></div>
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PW7eO6ynew0/UGr7moSzapI/AAAAAAAAAL8/NaTdrAmF13c/s1600/Valley+Course+5th.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PW7eO6ynew0/UGr7moSzapI/AAAAAAAAAL8/NaTdrAmF13c/s200/Valley+Course+5th.jpg" width="200" /></a>Brian Davis of Amherst made the biggest news of the week by finishing tied for 5th place in the Palmer Flight and earning an exemption into next year's National Championships at PGA West in San Diego. Ken Englert of Tonawanda, Chris Dolce of Buffalo, Chris Dopp from Collingwood, Ontario, Carl Assini from Brighton, 2011 National Champion Bradley Bishop of Alden, David Yackoff from West Henrietta, and Tom Pettinella of Batavia, also competed representing the Buffalo Tour.<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Though a few of our local participants may have walked away feeling a little disappointed with their game this week, all were treated to a first class experience and a time they will not soon forget.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
As a closing note, I'd like to thank all golfers who competed this past season on the GCAmTour - Buffalo. You helped make this the best season I've had since taking over the helm for the tour. Your loyalty was a big assist in helping me be named "Director of the Year' for the Northeast Region. Again, thank you.<br /><br />Paul</div>
GCAT Buffalohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18035567097359276107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8154608022511040.post-5202759235524280972012-10-02T06:02:00.002-07:002012-10-02T06:04:32.165-07:00Potter Wins In Playoff to Capture Wildwood Classic<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-llhXQUDnn9M/UGrfU9J9fEI/AAAAAAAAAKg/sKy1Qb37chc/s1600/Jack+Potter+Wildwood.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-llhXQUDnn9M/UGrfU9J9fEI/AAAAAAAAAKg/sKy1Qb37chc/s200/Jack+Potter+Wildwood.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jack Potter</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Chris Jerge of Buffalo used a clutch par save on the 18th hole to forge a tie with Jack Potter of Macedon, NY in the Wildwood Classic and force a sudden death playoff in the Jones Flight. A well placed tee shot on the 1st playoff hole, the par 3 5th hole, resulted in a 2 putt par and the resulting victory for Potter, a multi-winner on tour this year. Battling back problems all season, Potter used the event as a warm up for the 2012 National Championships.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KvS0g6_4h2E/UGrhdD-dcII/AAAAAAAAAKo/oDSkfXsE0wo/s1600/Ken+Englert+Wildwood.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KvS0g6_4h2E/UGrhdD-dcII/AAAAAAAAAKo/oDSkfXsE0wo/s200/Ken+Englert+Wildwood.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ken Englert</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Finishing the year with a flourish, Ken Englert of Tonawanda, New York, used steady play on the challenging Wildwood layout to claim his second tour win of the season by a one stroke margin over Steven Wedekind of Barker in the Palmer Flight. With several 2nd place finishes on the season, Englert made the triumph his second in a row after capturing the 2012 Peninsula Lakes Open 2 weeks ago. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qjbLVI86n9A/UGri4SUZqrI/AAAAAAAAAKw/ZWrN_lZQ_a4/s1600/Tom+Pettinella+Wildwood.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qjbLVI86n9A/UGri4SUZqrI/AAAAAAAAAKw/ZWrN_lZQ_a4/s200/Tom+Pettinella+Wildwood.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tom Pettinella</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Winning has become quite a habit for Tom Pettinella of Batavia, New York as he captured his sixth title of the season in the Sarazen Flight. His dominance on the tour this year earned Pettinella a promotion to the Hogan Flight for the upcoming National Championships this September at TPC Sawgrass. Consistant play week in and week out has been the hallmark of Pettinella's play and the promotion is well earned.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Next up for many of the golfers will be the 2012 Golf Channel AmTour Nationals in early September at TPC Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra, Florida. I'd like to wish all the qualifiers the best of luck and thank all tour players for making the 2012 season the best on record.</div>
GCAT Buffalohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18035567097359276107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8154608022511040.post-88000846061419935592012-07-30T10:17:00.000-07:002012-07-30T10:17:28.989-07:00Englert Captures 1st Title at Peninsula Lakes Open<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0h9k7h4gfRw/UBa51COmy4I/AAAAAAAAAKA/E-VEIPPtr2M/s1600/IMG_0230.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="196" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0h9k7h4gfRw/UBa51COmy4I/AAAAAAAAAKA/E-VEIPPtr2M/s200/IMG_0230.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
After multiple second place finishes on tour this year, Tonawanda police officer <strong><em>Ken Englert</em></strong> finally broke through to the winners circle in the Palmer Flight of the Golf Channel AmTour. Standing at 5 over par after 5 holes, Englert caught fire and carded even par over the final 13 holes for a 77 to take a 2 shot victory over his closest rival, 4 time winner Brian Davis. Englert's victory assures him a place in the field for the 2012 Nationals. Great job Ken!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fLmorNelzjw/UBa53db_zNI/AAAAAAAAAKI/85jJ01h7byU/s1600/IMG_0229.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="198" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fLmorNelzjw/UBa53db_zNI/AAAAAAAAAKI/85jJ01h7byU/s200/IMG_0229.JPG" width="200" /></a>Oakville, Ontario native <strong><em>Jeff Bossack</em></strong> wouldn't let a sore back stand in his way of taking home the silver in the Hogan/Sarzen Flight as his 2 over back nine propelled him to an 18 hole round of 79 and a 2 stroke margin of victory. In pain most of the day, Bossack smartly maneuvered his way around the picturesque peninsula Lakes Quarry and Hillside nines and afterwards stated that "maybe I should get hurt more often". I personally don't think that's a great idea but regardless, great round Jeff.<br /><br /><br /><br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UUbiVsQepaE/UBa5zWIT3BI/AAAAAAAAAJ4/dDJ6RKQD8m4/s1600/IMG_0228.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UUbiVsQepaE/UBa5zWIT3BI/AAAAAAAAAJ4/dDJ6RKQD8m4/s1600/IMG_0228.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="166" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UUbiVsQepaE/UBa5zWIT3BI/AAAAAAAAAJ4/dDJ6RKQD8m4/s200/IMG_0228.JPG" width="200" /></a>Trips to the winners podium are nothing new for AmTour veteran <strong><em>Pekka Ojapalo</em></strong> of Oakville, Ontario. The 2009 Senior Snead National Champion added more hardware to his collection by blistering the field in the Jones/Snead Flight with an 89 and his 2nd victory of the 2012 season. <br />GCAT Buffalohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18035567097359276107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8154608022511040.post-3517496832577954382012-07-30T09:42:00.000-07:002012-07-30T09:42:16.783-07:00AmTour Golfers Get Best Of Arrowhead<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2RBuwBofyNk/UBavTYkTU0I/AAAAAAAAAJc/pyeuD69YDlM/s1600/IMG_0225.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2RBuwBofyNk/UBavTYkTU0I/AAAAAAAAAJc/pyeuD69YDlM/s200/IMG_0225.JPG" width="186" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
After 2 years of trying, Senior Hogan golfer <strong><em>Kenneth Alexander</em></strong> of West Henrietta finally broke through to the win column, netting his first AmTour victory on the Arrowhead Golf Courses links style layout. Consistentency was the key to his win as he fashion identical nines of 40 for a final total of 80 to outdistance his nearest competitor by 4 strokes.</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-E1dw5oxpcLE/UBauy20oUyI/AAAAAAAAAJM/yTQdZt1kG9I/s1600/IMG_0226.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-E1dw5oxpcLE/UBauy20oUyI/AAAAAAAAAJM/yTQdZt1kG9I/s200/IMG_0226.JPG" width="188" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Also stepping into the winners circle for the first time was Senior Sarazen player <strong><em>Richard Stein</em></strong> from Cheektowaga, New York, whose blistering 39 on the front nine paved the way to a final 80 and a 2 stroke victory over Chris Dopp of Collingwood, Ontario. By winning, Stein solidifies his place in the 2012 Senior Nationals being held at TPC Sawgrass in September.</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7A4GiU6TK8s/UBavQ1cJXjI/AAAAAAAAAJU/FYedqc5fAOQ/s1600/IMG_0227.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7A4GiU6TK8s/UBavQ1cJXjI/AAAAAAAAAJU/FYedqc5fAOQ/s1600/IMG_0227.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="143" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7A4GiU6TK8s/UBavQ1cJXjI/AAAAAAAAAJU/FYedqc5fAOQ/s200/IMG_0227.JPG" width="200" /><br />
<br />
</a><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The best battle of the day was between <strong><em>Robert Zehler</em></strong> of Williamson, NY and Donald Sheldon of Honesdale, Pa in their battle to claim the year long Order of Merit race in the Jones Flight. Trailing Sheldon by 4 strokes at the turn, Zehler carded a 40 on the back nine and eked out a one shot victory as both golfers outdistanced the rest of the Jones field by a sizable margin.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2ZTdCUgWWxs/UBavVWG1z1I/AAAAAAAAAJk/vzDXnK8uwO0/s1600/IMG_0224.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a></div>
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2ZTdCUgWWxs/UBavVWG1z1I/AAAAAAAAAJk/vzDXnK8uwO0/s1600/IMG_0224.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="185" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2ZTdCUgWWxs/UBavVWG1z1I/AAAAAAAAAJk/vzDXnK8uwO0/s200/IMG_0224.JPG" width="200" /></a>The best round of the day was turned in by 4 time winner <strong><em>Brian</em></strong> <strong><em>Davis</em></strong> of Amherst, New York in the Palmer Flight with a 35 - 37 for a score of even par 72. The score stands as the lowest round shot this year on the Buffalo Golf Channel AmTour. Standing at 3 under par with 4 holes remaining, Davis was unable to maintain his earlier momentum. Regardless, congratulations to Brian on a great round.<br /><br />Next up for the local edition of the AmTour is the Turning Stone Classic in Verona, New York, a 2 day test of skill on the Kaluyet and Shenandoah courses. In total, 19 local tour players are registered in the field as they battle their way to gain a spot in the 2012 NationalsGCAT Buffalohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18035567097359276107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8154608022511040.post-7306340251148777242012-06-10T09:31:00.002-07:002012-06-10T09:31:23.537-07:00Pettinella Makes It 5 For 5<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ubjjsZB5tZY/T9TBT7fMXUI/AAAAAAAAAIY/h6Z65ZW12ls/s1600/IMG_0221.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ubjjsZB5tZY/T9TBT7fMXUI/AAAAAAAAAIY/h6Z65ZW12ls/s200/IMG_0221.JPG" width="174" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
With 5 victorys in 5 starts, <strong>Tom Pettinella</strong> continued his dominance of the <strong>Sarazen Flight</strong> on the <strong>2012 GCAmTour</strong> season and it appears that his steady play seems to be the key to his winning ways. Trailing both Jeff Bossack of Oakville, Ontario and Richard Stein of Cheektowaga, New York by 2 two strokes after nine holes in the <strong>Battle of Mill Creek</strong>, held at the <strong>Mill Creek Golf Course</strong> in Churchville, NY, Pettinella avoided any large numbers and waited for the competition falter, the end result was a one stroke victory and to date an undefeated season.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CaNsc6xOXjI/T9TEIUdepOI/AAAAAAAAAIk/xI08KLFVDg0/s1600/IMG_0220.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="189" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CaNsc6xOXjI/T9TEIUdepOI/AAAAAAAAAIk/xI08KLFVDg0/s200/IMG_0220.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
A bad back that prompted a two month layoff from the game and a long 5 hour drive wasn't enough to prevent the 2010 Senior Hogan National Champion, <strong>Don Miller</strong> of North Bay, Ontario from blistering the Mill Creek layout with a 77 and earn him the crown in the <strong>Hogan Flight</strong>. Alex Kurilovitch of Oswego, New York and Robert Davis of Nunda, New York finished second and third respectably.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7M1hNa7wYZc/T9TFvE4tO-I/AAAAAAAAAIs/9OOGhUUA_dw/s1600/IMG_0218.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7M1hNa7wYZc/T9TFvE4tO-I/AAAAAAAAAIs/9OOGhUUA_dw/s200/IMG_0218.JPG" width="199" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
After 3 second place finishes on the season, <strong>Michael Pogor</strong> of Burlington, Ontario finally claimed victory by carding his best round on the 2012 GCAmTour season and tying the lowest score of the day with a 77. What makes his feat notable however is that he recognized that he had a crack in the crown of his driver on the second hole of play. Undaunted his solid and consistant play earned him his first victory of the year in the <strong>Championship Flight</strong>.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IywXf8g81Bo/T9TIFTIC_YI/AAAAAAAAAI0/7wdSco1_pMY/s1600/IMG_0219.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IywXf8g81Bo/T9TIFTIC_YI/AAAAAAAAAI0/7wdSco1_pMY/s200/IMG_0219.JPG" width="180" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
When he puts his mind to it, <strong>Steve Wedekind</strong> of Newfane, New York can play some pretty good golf and he proved it again yesterday with his third triumph of the year in the <strong>Palmer Flight</strong>. The victory also earned him a spot in the 2012 GCAmTour National Championships this fall. Brian Davis of Amherst finished 2 shots back in second and Christopher Dolce earned the third spot.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ls5D6NpIIpA/T9TKGCx8NjI/AAAAAAAAAI8/HoZ33QawJ1E/s1600/IMG_0222.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ls5D6NpIIpA/T9TKGCx8NjI/AAAAAAAAAI8/HoZ33QawJ1E/s1600/IMG_0222.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ls5D6NpIIpA/T9TKGCx8NjI/AAAAAAAAAI8/HoZ33QawJ1E/s200/IMG_0222.JPG" width="193" /></a>A winding 20 foot birdie putt on the first playoff hole led Macedon, New York resident <strong>Jack Potter</strong> to his first win of the year in the <strong>Jones/Snead Flight</strong>. For fellow competitor Bob Zehler of Williamson, it was his second consecutive playoff defeat.<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>GCAT Buffalohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18035567097359276107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8154608022511040.post-40589460540185987692012-06-10T08:44:00.001-07:002012-06-10T08:44:13.682-07:00Weather Doesn't Deter Golfers at Diamond Hawk Classic<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ivepulseMgE/T9S2eKU_WGI/AAAAAAAAAHw/AX-57ivJPS4/s1600/IMG_0216.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a></div>
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ivepulseMgE/T9S2eKU_WGI/AAAAAAAAAHw/AX-57ivJPS4/s1600/IMG_0216.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="145" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ivepulseMgE/T9S2eKU_WGI/AAAAAAAAAHw/AX-57ivJPS4/s200/IMG_0216.JPG" width="200" /></a>Occasionally heavy downpours, strong, gusty winds and two lightning delays didn't prevent the field of GCAmTour golfers from completing their competition on the difficult <strong>Diamond Hawk Golf Course</strong> in Cheektowaga, New York. Leading the way was <strong>Steve Butcher</strong> of Newfane, who bested Gary Ragar on the first playoff hole to claim his inaugural victory in the <strong>Hogan Flight</strong>. The score of 84 shot by the 2 golfers proved to be the day's lowest on a long and miserable day.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4RaPqABtJr0/T9S4lHMYtVI/AAAAAAAAAH4/hLO2-UaHhT0/s1600/IMG_0214.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4RaPqABtJr0/T9S4lHMYtVI/AAAAAAAAAH4/hLO2-UaHhT0/s200/IMG_0214.JPG" width="187" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
A much coveted seed into the <strong>GCAmTour 2012 National</strong> <strong>Championships at TPC Sawgrass</strong> was granted <strong>Brian Davis</strong> of Amherst by virtue of his third victory of the season in the <strong>Championship/Palmer Flight.</strong> His victory margin of 8 strokes proved to be the day's largest. The rain-soaked course made scoring difficult and the multiple delays proved to be frustrating as conditions worsened as the afternoon wore on. After an opening 9 of 41, it became a matter of just taking what the course offered as on this day Davis proved to be the better.</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LaMJ3KZ8Iwk/T9S784n9qLI/AAAAAAAAAIE/l6vnrnO_5qQ/s1600/IMG_0215.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a></div>
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LaMJ3KZ8Iwk/T9S784n9qLI/AAAAAAAAAIE/l6vnrnO_5qQ/s1600/IMG_0215.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LaMJ3KZ8Iwk/T9S784n9qLI/AAAAAAAAAIE/l6vnrnO_5qQ/s200/IMG_0215.JPG" width="196" /></a><strong>Tom Pettinella</strong> of Batavia, New York is making quite a habit of winning on the 2012 GCAmTour season regardless of the playing conditions and this day was no different. Claiming his fourth crown in four tries, Pettinella's consistency proved to be too much in the <strong>Sarazen Flight</strong> as he edged his nearest competitor, Jeff Bossack of Oakville, Ontario by a 2 shot margin.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Qabx8OIorhw/T9S9yX7wIMI/AAAAAAAAAIM/qQ3N-JnH-lQ/s1600/IMG_0217.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Qabx8OIorhw/T9S9yX7wIMI/AAAAAAAAAIM/qQ3N-JnH-lQ/s1600/IMG_0217.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="192" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Qabx8OIorhw/T9S9yX7wIMI/AAAAAAAAAIM/qQ3N-JnH-lQ/s200/IMG_0217.JPG" width="200" /></a><strong>2009 Senior Snead National Champion, Pekka Ojapalo</strong> of Oakville, Ontario had to work overtime to earn his first victory of the season in the <strong>Jones/Snead Flight</strong>. Tied with Bob Zehler of Williamson, New York, after 18 holes of play, Ojapalo proved that par can be a good score as he parred the 1st playoff hole to claim his win. Pat Brooks of Orchard Park finished one stroke back of the leaders.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>GCAT Buffalohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18035567097359276107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8154608022511040.post-30267602058171769392012-06-10T07:52:00.000-07:002012-06-10T07:55:31.922-07:00Ravenwood Classic Crowns Four Champions<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GUWQpoCN29k/T9SqXTmA4lI/AAAAAAAAAHE/Hxp-8p7BgsU/s1600/IMG_0212.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GUWQpoCN29k/T9SqXTmA4lI/AAAAAAAAAHE/Hxp-8p7BgsU/s200/IMG_0212.JPG" width="188" /></a></div>
An automatic seed into the <strong>2012 GCAmTour National</strong> <strong>Championships</strong> this September at TPC Sawgrass accompanied his third victory of the season as <strong>Tom Pettinella</strong> used a blistering front nine to claim the crown in the <strong>Sarazen Flight</strong> at the <strong>Ravenwood Classic.</strong> His 18 hole tally of 78 provided a 13 stroke margin over his nearest competitor as he cruised to the win on a mild and sunny afternoon at the Victor, NY golf facility. His final score also proved to be the days lowest.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PwmZiy94a50/T9Sr2JyWUzI/AAAAAAAAAHM/-0zA01GNNzY/s1600/IMG_0210.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="175" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PwmZiy94a50/T9Sr2JyWUzI/AAAAAAAAAHM/-0zA01GNNzY/s200/IMG_0210.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
A heavy heart after the Amherst High School varsity baseball team that he coaches was eliminated from the Section VI playoffs the night before didn't prevent <strong>Brian Davis</strong> from claiming his 2nd victory of the season in the <strong>Championship/Palmer Flight</strong>. His final score of 79 was just enough to hold off a hard charging Michael Pogor of Burlington, Ontario and Ken Englert of Tonawanda, NY. Though proud of his victory, it wasn't much consolation for the feelings he holds for his young charges.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5xXCC4OC7nE/T9SwRExP39I/AAAAAAAAAHY/0NKParMARNo/s1600/IMG_0211.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5xXCC4OC7nE/T9SwRExP39I/AAAAAAAAAHY/0NKParMARNo/s200/IMG_0211.JPG" width="171" /></a></div>
The <strong>2011 GCAmTour Sarazen National Champion</strong>, <strong>Bradley Bishop</strong> of Alden, NY also garnered his 2nd crown of the season in the <strong>Hogan Flight</strong>. His steady play on the final 9 holes provided him with a 2 shot margin over Steve Butcher of Newfane, NY after making the turn even with each other. The old adage "fairways and greens" was the key to his victory as he consistently kept the ball in the shorter grass.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fvGmGn8iSvE/T9SywYTuqaI/AAAAAAAAAHk/W0_hba4om_0/s1600/IMG_0213.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fvGmGn8iSvE/T9SywYTuqaI/AAAAAAAAAHk/W0_hba4om_0/s200/IMG_0213.JPG" width="185" /></a></div>
After a 2011 season that saw the <strong>2010 GCAmTour Senior Snead</strong> <strong>Order of Merit Champion</strong> go winless, Bob Zehler of Williamson, NY finally returned to the victory circle by shooting 40 on the back nine and cruising to victory in the <strong>Jones/Snead Flight</strong>. After reputedly his worst year on tour, Zehler has once again found the consistency necessary to once again return him to the top of the leaderboard on a regular basis.<br />
<br />
Congratulations to all the Ravenwood Classic winners for a great event.GCAT Buffalohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18035567097359276107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8154608022511040.post-67565245561575781292012-06-10T06:57:00.000-07:002012-06-10T06:57:43.894-07:00Alex Kurilovitch Tops Field<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-woOQq6lTUYg/T9SjO9itadI/AAAAAAAAAGo/k8RTv0oE9MI/s1600/ak.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="198" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-woOQq6lTUYg/T9SjO9itadI/AAAAAAAAAGo/k8RTv0oE9MI/s200/ak.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
Wind gusts upwards of 40 mph made scoring a bit difficult as the GCAmTour teed it up on the picturesque Seneca Hickory Stick Golf Club in Lewiston, NY. Leading the scoring for the day was <strong>Alex Kurilovitch</strong> of Oswego, NY with an 83 as his birdie on the par 4 15th hole fueled a strong finish and led him to a one stroke victory over Chris Dopp of Collingwood, Ontario and Richard Stein of Cheektowaga, NY in the <strong>Hogan/Sarzen Flight</strong> and claim his 1st win of the year.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lbJN1okVvJ4/T9SkTPipqMI/AAAAAAAAAGw/XZU3dMd5B-c/s1600/SW.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lbJN1okVvJ4/T9SkTPipqMI/AAAAAAAAAGw/XZU3dMd5B-c/s200/SW.jpg" width="185" /></a></div>
<strong>Steve Wedekind</strong> from Newfane, NY claimed his second victory of the season with a one stroke win over second place finisher Ken Englert of Tonawanda, NY in the <strong>Palmer Flight</strong>. Playing on his home course provided little advantage as the hard charging Englert made a game of it but just couldn't quite catch Wedekind.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2FLx0sqVvOo/T9Slo_r_EOI/AAAAAAAAAG4/ngB_FvlDzE8/s1600/cj.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="183" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2FLx0sqVvOo/T9Slo_r_EOI/AAAAAAAAAG4/ngB_FvlDzE8/s200/cj.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
A strong back nine finish led <strong>Chris Jerge</strong> of West Seneca to a 3 shot margin of the field in the <strong>Jones/Snead Flight</strong> to claim his 2nd victory of the season. Robert Zehler of Williamson and Marty Ground of Akron, NY finished second and third respectably.<br />
<br />
<strong>George McLaughlin</strong> (not shown) of Friendship, NY carded his second win of the year, cruising to a 5 shot margin over his nearest competitor in the <strong>Championship Flight</strong>GCAT Buffalohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18035567097359276107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8154608022511040.post-68918805681947630162012-05-08T16:13:00.000-07:002012-05-08T16:13:03.469-07:00Brian Davis Tops Field at Lockport Town & CC Classic<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oaEqCfcdfCo/T6mfZWfOn_I/AAAAAAAAAF4/46jlH-HpoSE/s1600/024.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="195" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oaEqCfcdfCo/T6mfZWfOn_I/AAAAAAAAAF4/46jlH-HpoSE/s200/024.JPG" width="200" /></a>Amherst High School baseball coach Brian Davis blistered the field in the Lockport Town & Country Club Classic with a 78 to out-distance the field in the Palmer Flight by 9 strokes over runner-up Ken Englert of Tonawanda. A total of 32 competitors, spread across 5 separate handicap flights, were greated by sunny skys and mild temperatures as they challenged the historic layout presented them by this fine private facility. Fast greens proved to be the biggest challenge facing the golfers as many struggled to get the speed.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
In the Championship Flight, George McLaughlin from Friendship, NY bested Michael Pogor of Burlington, Ontario by a mere 2 strokes in the days closest contest. In the Hogan Flight, Gary Rager of Buffalo, used a strong finish to out duel Larry Kavanaugh of West Seneca and win by a comfortable 3 strokes. Tom Pettinella of Batavia continued his domination of the Sarazen Flight by taking home his 2nd trophy with a hard fought victory over Dwight Trafford of Brampton, Ontario. Chris Jerge of West Seneca gained his first victory of the season in the Jones Flight by a 3 stroke margin over Donald Sheldon of Honesdale, Pa.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fBatRPS-URE/T6mm98F-FUI/AAAAAAAAAGc/54zkC3yEDuc/s1600/027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fBatRPS-URE/T6mm98F-FUI/AAAAAAAAAGc/54zkC3yEDuc/s200/027.JPG" width="188" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DEw7SmeXavw/T6mmeSwJDjI/AAAAAAAAAGU/JkMB7Ph10g4/s1600/026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="192" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DEw7SmeXavw/T6mmeSwJDjI/AAAAAAAAAGU/JkMB7Ph10g4/s200/026.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2s0cXmHoiLE/T6ml8cFOVxI/AAAAAAAAAGE/8iFqXcIbCp0/s1600/023.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="178" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2s0cXmHoiLE/T6ml8cFOVxI/AAAAAAAAAGE/8iFqXcIbCp0/s200/023.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dIyrDZ9GFXo/T6mmIZq6JVI/AAAAAAAAAGM/c149uRbZc68/s1600/025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dIyrDZ9GFXo/T6mmIZq6JVI/AAAAAAAAAGM/c149uRbZc68/s200/025.JPG" width="189" /></a></div>GCAT Buffalohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18035567097359276107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8154608022511040.post-49648996290531476362012-04-24T10:49:00.001-07:002012-04-24T10:49:37.357-07:00Tough Conditions Greet Opening EventAbsolutely 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.<br />
<br />
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.<br />
<br />
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.<br />
<br />
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.<br />
<br />
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.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BgBD53PL7m8/T5bmEtx3xHI/AAAAAAAAAEk/ORgBDfUwj8I/s1600/075.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BgBD53PL7m8/T5bmEtx3xHI/AAAAAAAAAEk/ORgBDfUwj8I/s320/075.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fHwos34oh3Q/T5bmRFA8ycI/AAAAAAAAAEs/KDE5RPZXjeU/s1600/077.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fHwos34oh3Q/T5bmRFA8ycI/AAAAAAAAAEs/KDE5RPZXjeU/s320/077.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YSbm3Ea9JWo/T5bmYWEFvpI/AAAAAAAAAE0/CJhCb2DxRaM/s1600/078.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YSbm3Ea9JWo/T5bmYWEFvpI/AAAAAAAAAE0/CJhCb2DxRaM/s320/078.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jdU1XDow9eg/T5bmiQ1Lc8I/AAAAAAAAAE8/OTz_GQTQ-e0/s1600/072.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jdU1XDow9eg/T5bmiQ1Lc8I/AAAAAAAAAE8/OTz_GQTQ-e0/s320/072.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zBp3hCdH69w/T5bmu3vCyaI/AAAAAAAAAFE/VFZWdQscBtU/s1600/081.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zBp3hCdH69w/T5bmu3vCyaI/AAAAAAAAAFE/VFZWdQscBtU/s320/081.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-awu6i1f7mXE/T5bm2Dr2-vI/AAAAAAAAAFM/999WAxMFbWU/s1600/082.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-awu6i1f7mXE/T5bm2Dr2-vI/AAAAAAAAAFM/999WAxMFbWU/s320/082.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OMjwAiRzSRI/T5bm9ihZDZI/AAAAAAAAAFU/JZSh7Jx5WnI/s1600/083.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OMjwAiRzSRI/T5bm9ihZDZI/AAAAAAAAAFU/JZSh7Jx5WnI/s320/083.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oUrkqwBRkT4/T5bnFL7awoI/AAAAAAAAAFc/-ILRBUj0C9k/s1600/084.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oUrkqwBRkT4/T5bnFL7awoI/AAAAAAAAAFc/-ILRBUj0C9k/s320/084.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Next up is the Lockport Town & Country Club Open on Sunday, May 6th. Deadline to register for this event is midnight on April 30th.GCAT Buffalohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18035567097359276107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8154608022511040.post-71201429608222250832012-04-14T08:09:00.000-07:002012-04-14T08:09:47.420-07:002012 Local Season to kick off April 21stThe Buffalo edition of the GCAmTour will kick off it's 2012 campaign on April 21st at Terry Hills GC in Batavia, New York. With the addition of 19 new members this year, the battle for qualifying spots for the National Championships at TPC Sawgrass will be intense. Returning this year will be 2011 Sarazen National Champion Bradley Bishop and 2009 Senior Snead National Champion Pekka Ojapalo. Registration for this event closes at midnight on April 16th.<br />
<br />
I am really looking forward to this year's campaign as each year we have grown a slight bit and each year more and more of our local members participate in at least one Major Championship. The GCAmTour is the nations largest amateur tour with tours in approximately 50 cities. <br />
<br />
I wish to take this time to thank all our new and returning members and wish all of you a great and successful season.GCAT Buffalohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18035567097359276107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8154608022511040.post-64607523595207633852011-10-07T06:27:00.000-07:002011-10-07T06:27:14.852-07:00Bradley Bishop captures Sarazen Flight at National Championships<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sFYfLD1R8RY/To76xMBOABI/AAAAAAAAAD0/Ln7uvCEi4MQ/s1600/Sept27AMTOUR-20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sFYfLD1R8RY/To76xMBOABI/AAAAAAAAAD0/Ln7uvCEi4MQ/s320/Sept27AMTOUR-20.jpg" width="210" /></a>Bradley Bishop of Alden, NY is the 2011 Golf Channel Amateur Tour Sarazen Flight Champion. His steady play over the final 2 days of the 4 day event, vaulted him to a 4 shot victory over the field in the open division of the championships. A member of the GCAmTour Buffalo Tour, he joins both Pekka Ojapalo (2009 Senior Snead National Champion) and Robert Zehler (2010 Senior Snead National Callaway Order of Merit Champion) to make it 3 years in a row that the local Buffalo Tour has brought home a national title. Congratulations Bradley, you are a great representative of our region and deserving of the recognition.</div>GCAT Buffalohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18035567097359276107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8154608022511040.post-46112752939976969032011-03-04T04:03:00.000-08:002011-03-04T04:03:06.139-08:00Director WelcomeI find it extremely exciting that we now have our own web page with a local flavor. It should make it much easier for you to register for events and follow what is happening on our local tour. I think the <a href="http://thegolfchannel.bluegolf.com/bluegolf/thegolfchannel11/chapter/nybuffalo/schedule/buffalo/index.htm">2011 schedule</a> is the best to date, with the addition of several new courses and the addition of the Regional Major at <br />
Turning Stone this year. Let me know what you think.GCAT Buffalohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18035567097359276107noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8154608022511040.post-89986521827475698282011-02-15T05:58:00.001-08:002011-02-15T05:58:18.553-08:00Hello Am Tour Players and Fans<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: #141414; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="color: white; font-size: 10pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">Welcome to the Official Buffalo Golf Channel Am Tour blog! This blog will act as your resource for the latest news, results, player profiles and pictures from all of our events. </span><span style="color: white; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman';"></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background: #141414; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background: #141414; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="color: white; font-size: 10pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">Follow along to stay up-to-date on what’s happening with our local and national tournaments and the Tour Members who make Golf Channel Am Tour, the best in the nation. Plus, get exclusive access to Am Tour right at your fingertips - anytime, anywhere when you follow us on Twitter and Facebook!</span><span style="color: white; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman';"></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background: #141414; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background: #141414; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="color: white; font-size: 10pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">Interested in joining Golf Channel Am Tour? Visit gcamtour.com for more information on how you can become a Member of the nation’s #1 amateur tour! </span><span style="color: white; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman';"></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background: #141414; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background: #141414; line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="color: white; font-size: 10pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Thanks so much for visiting!</span></span><span style="color: white; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman';"></span></div>GCAT Buffalohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18035567097359276107noreply@blogger.com0