By Tom Johnson
Greetings Hickory Golfers,
The Championship was held Aug. 12-13, at the historic Foxburg Country Club, in western Pennsylvania. The Foxburg Country Club was established in 1887. For this event, Foxburg was set up to play as a par 73, at 4,750 yards.
The weather forecast for the practice and tournament rounds was less than ideal, high probability of thunderstorms, high humidity, and temperatures in the 90s. Regardless of the forecast and conditions, the players were able to complete their rounds without delays, with plenty of inspired golf among the contestants.
The divisions were revised for 2016, in there was an Open and Senior Division using the Park gutty, an Open and Senior Division using the Braid line cut, and of course the Post-1900 Division using the Ouimet mesh pattern ball. Additionally, we had the pleasure of hosting two First Tee youngsters, Isaac Childry from Reidsville, N.C.; and Garrett Beaver from Pittsburgh, Pa.
The first round, featured a shotgun start, followed by nine holes and a break for 30 minutes to enjoy a nice catered lunch, before we completed the complete the second nine.
Seth Lomison (Pfafftown, N.C.) carded an excellent 75 using the Park gutty. Alone in second, using the Park ball, was Steve Herron (Pinehurst, N.C.) with a fine 82; two shots further back was Deal Hudson (Fairfax, Va.) recording an 84.
The Braid Division was led by Ron Taylor (Wheatland, Pa.), who came in with an 87, followed closely by Jim Koss (Green Bay, Wisc.), and Bern Bernacki (Pittsburgh, Pa.), both with scores of 88.
Lyle Graham (Louisville, Ky.) led the Post-1900 Division with 92.
The second day was also hot and muggy, but a little breeze developed that moderated the temperatures, but also moved a couple very brief showers through the area, none lasting more than a few minutes.
Seth enjoyed another fine round, finishing the day with 77, a total of 152, and is the Open Champion. The 152 he recorded is a new tournament record, besting the previous best by three strokes. Finishing Runner-Up in the Open Division was Tim Flynn (Lexington, Ky.). Flynn’s final round 79 enabled him to come in with a 36-hole score of 165. Second Runner-Up in the Open Division was consistent Steve Herron, finishing with 167.
The Park Division Senior Champion was Deal Hudson with a 36-hole total of 169. Tom Johnson (Tallmadge, Ohio) was Senior Runner-Up.
The Braid Division was hotly contested. Mike Campailla (Mogadore, Ohio) shot 82 on Saturday, for a 172 and a victory by six shots over local Ted Tharan who finished play with 178. In the Braid Senior Division, Ron Taylor is the Champion with a score of 177, Jim Koss was Runner-Up with 179, with Frank Rosenzweig finishing in third.
Lyle Graham is the Post-1900 Champion, using the Ouimet ball, finishing with 184.
Click here for a PDF of complete tournament scores.
A special side competition was held for the Just Contingent. Patrick Just, Kris Hayden, and their friend, Chris Mills, took the opportunity to visit Foxburg for the first time. Their enthusiasm was impressive, as were their golf games. Kris fired a 90 the first day, to Patrick’s and Chris’ 93. The close scores created an opportunity to play in the same group on the second day, with pride and bragging rights in the balance. Each had figured out the ball and the greens, and improved their scoring dramatically, but Kris was able to hang on to win the donated Foxburg shoe bag. We hope they will return and drag Andy with them.
Many thanks to the members of Foxburg Country Club for allowing us to use their course again this year. In particular, to Jeff Tex, the Greens Superintendent, who had the course in great condition, despite the stressful weather the region has suffered over the past two months.
Our sincere appreciation to all contestants, along with the families and guests who accompanied them. We all very aware of the personal cost in time and arranging your schedule, as well as the financial commitment in attending an event such as Foxburg. We cannot thank you enough for making the effort to join us, and participating in an event that brings smiles to everyone in attendance. We are hopeful you found the Championship fulfilling,both competitively and socially as you enjoyed rekindling old friendships, and delighted in making new friends. The entire three days was filled with warmth and fellowship.
Gutty golf, the most difficult fun you could ever have, with the best friends you could ever meet.
Thank you,
Tom and Karen Johnson
Event host Tom Johnson, left, congratulates Seth Lomison, the 2016 Foxburg Hickory Champion.