Sept. 10, 2017
The forces of nature in the forms of Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, along with massive flooding and wild fires in various areas of the USA, ( thousands of miles away from the Iowa Hickory Classic) played havoc with many of the faithful attendees of this 10th annual event played Sept. 8-9 at Hyperion Field Club in Des Moines, Iowa. Fifteen regular players were not able to attend the 2017 edition due to tending to urgent business in their respective home areas. Prayers to all those who received the brunt of those storms.
The 40 players who were in attendance and their spouses and guests did heartily support the “charitable raffle” and $500 was raised to aid in flood relief. Thanks to all who donated items and those who supported this cause.
The hickory golf that was played, however, was not diminished by storms but quite competitive. Defending Open Division Champion Gary Youngberg of Ames, Iowa fought off spirited challenges by his son, Kirk Youngberg, and Kirk Watson, also of Ames. The respective scores were 81, 82, and 83 on a very challenging 1910 Tom Bendelow design.
John Hutton of Blackhawk, Colo. won the Senior Open Division, crafting a score of 79. Hyperion’s own Bobby Jones won the Statesman Open Division with an 87. Jeanne Swenson of Kelley, Iowa defended her Ladies Open Division Gold Medal for the umpteenth time.
The Team Scramble Division also saw great golf shots and scores. The Gold hardware was captured by the team of Clayton Copple, Derek Hannah, David Rasey, and Chip Capaldo, all of the Des Moines, Iowa metro area.
Submitted by: William W. Reed, the grizzled old Tourney Director, who was in early contention for the Statesman title, fell off the pace at the end, but did best his body temperature with lots of room to spare.
Honor the Game, and see you all at Mid – Pines, Southern Pines, N.C. in November 2017.
Patti Pittinger scrambles a putt to help her team.
The Turf Wreckers Trophy keeps an important beverage cool.