Bob Edelblut
The weekly schedule said that the finals for the Tournament of Champions would be played on November 17. This schedule is sacred and nothing, well almost nothing, will cause it to be compromised. Get the picture? There were several situations including the weather forecast that almost caused this popular event to be rescheduled. But, the schedule prevailed! Just in case you have forgotten, MPMGA members play in weekly events all year long trying to accumulate enough points to qualify for this event. Reach the magic number and you are in. Miss the magic number and you are waiting for next year.
This year’s field was smaller than normal, the weather was less than delightful, and the Preserve Golf Course was ready for the challenge—but nothing dampened the enthusiasm of the 48 qualifiers who showed up for the 8:00 a.m. shotgun start. The players were bracketed into five flights and all players received 100% of their current handicap and, yes, the overall winner would be the one who shot the lowest net score.
Are you ready for the good stuff yet? One half of the field, 50%, produced a net score below par. Wow! Fourteen players had net scores in the 60s. Seven players finished tied for third place with net 67s and the second place finisher Jack Jackson had a net 64. I guess you get the picture. They all brought their A game. Great golf, gentlemen! Now here is the best—Steve Bender shot a net 59, 13 under par and truly walked away with the title. Congratulations, Steve, for a phenomenal round of golf. You have set a very high bar.