November 18-19, 2017 - Home Course Knowledge Claims the 2017 John Bryan Cup
West Point, MS - The annual John Bryan Cup Team Club Championship took place this weekend at Old Waverly Golf Club. Eighteen teams from around the state represented fifteen MGA member clubs. Each team sent five of their best golfers to compete for this year's Bryan Cup. Round 1 began as a shotgun start at 8:30am on Saturday morning in efforts to finish ahead of the weather scheduled to come in that afternoon, and play was completed just after lunch time. Part of the Round 1 excitement came from Team Greenwood Country Club's Robert Pannell who recorded a Hole-In-One on the Par 3 hole #3 at Old Waverly. Team Annandale Golf Club's Ross Bell fired an impressive 67 (-5) for his first round total and secured the lead for Team Annadale and for himself in the individual under 50 division after the first round was completed. Chris Lemley from Team Old Waverly Golf Club held the lead in the individual over 50 division after recording a 71 (-1) in the first round. On Sunday, Round 2 got off to a chilly start with temperatures being in the upper 30's when the first group's teed off at 8:00am. After the Second Round was completed and all of the scores were entered, it was Old Waverly Golf Club's first team that came out on top to claim the 2017 John Bryan Cup. The winning team was comprised of five Old Waverly members: Richard Reed, Tracy Cockerham, Geoffery King, Charlie Pilkinton, and Chris Lemly. Both Ross Bell and Chris Lemley held on to their leads in the individual categories. Bell shot 77 (+5) in round 2 to finish with a two-round total of 144 (even) to claim the Under 50 Individual Champion, and Lemley posted a 72 (even) in round 2 to finish at 143 (-1) for the weekend to claim the Over 50 Individual title. A huge thanks goes out to the Old Waverly Golf Club Staff that made this event a huge success! For complete results for this event Click Here.
October 21-22, 2017 - 2017 MS Cup Matches
Hattiesburg, MS - This year's MS Cup Matches was hosted by Hattiesburg Country Club. The maches were played by two teams of twelve members. The MGA team was comprised of 12 of the States top amateur golfers: Richard Reed (captain), Ben Snow, Joel Myrick, Ricky Sims, Scott Rhodes, Brandon Laird, David Sellers, Brett Parker, Ethan Smith, Robert Pannell, Carter Callaway, and Alan Ellis. Team MPGA was comprised of twelve PGA Professionals from the State of Mississippi: Tim Basel (captian), Blake Hatfield, Joseph Hanko, Reed Hughes, Olly Thomson, Russ Pitts, Quincy Morrison, Anthony Price, Russ Bloom, David Lee, Leigh Brannan, and Kevin Kelly. The event was set for 3 rounds of matchplay Four-ball, Foursome, and Singles, but due to inclement weather on Sunday the singles matches were cancelled. The first round of matchplay was played on Saturday morning in Four-Ball format. Team MGA secured a 2 point lead after the completion of the morning matches. After Lunch the Foursome matches began and Team MPGA tried to make their comeback securing 3.5 points in the afternoon, but it was not enough to overcome Team MGA's morning lead. Team MGA won the Mississippi Cup Matches 6.5 points - 5.5 points, and they brought the Ralph Hershfelt Memorial Trophy home with them to have the MGA etched into the trophy as the 2017 champions.
September 12, 2017 - Round 1 of the 2017 Women's Senior Amateur has Been Delayed
Cleveland, MS - Due to weather and course conditions the First Round of the Women's State Senior Am has been delayed until 1:00pm where there is an expected Shotgun Start. Lunch will be available in the Cleveland Country Club Clubhouse for 11:00am-12:30pm. Players Please gather on the practice putting green at 12:45pm for announcements.
August 27, 2017 - Veteran and New Champions at the Senior Amateur Championship in Cleveland Country Club
Cleveland, MS - There were no surprises in the final round of the 2017 Senior Amateur Championship at Cleveland Country Club. Kyle Smith, of Summit, who led the championship through 36 holes played consistently through the final 54 holes with a score of two-under total to win by three strokes over the runner-up, Rickey Riley, of Fulton. Smith is a new Champion to the Senior Amateur and we look forward to seeing him return to future championships.
A familiar face to Mississippi Amateur, Ricky Sims, of Canton, began the final round tied with Greg Brooking, both seven strokes behind the leader. The 36 hole leader, Gary Oakley, of Senatobia, fired the low round of the tournament during the second day at six-under (66). With 6 Senior Championships on record, Ricky Sims, began the final round knowing what it would take. Sims squeeked past Brooking with four birdies on the front 9 holes and two more on the second 9 holes to pull him to the lead by two. It was certainly a battle to the final hole and Sims was awarded the Super Senior Amateur Champion and Greg Brooking, of Natches, finished runner-up.
The Grand Masters Division came down to a tie in the final round. Richard Mathis and Steve Lary were tied at eleven over par and returned to the course for a hole-by-hole playoff. Steve Lary came out victorious and was awarded the Grand Masters Senior Amateur Champion in his first year as a Grand Master and also after ten years since his Super Senior Amateur title.
Many thanks to Sam Dunning and Aaron Lasker for their continued dedication to welcoming the Senior Amateurs of Mississippi and preparatiosn for a first class championship.
For complete results, click here.
August 25, 2017- Perfect Fall Weather opened the 64th Senior Amateur Championship in the MS Delta
Cleveland, MS - Steve Lary, our 2007 Super Senior Champion of Greenwood, takes an early lead in the opening round of the Grand Masters Senior Amateur Championship by posting a 1 over par 73 at Cleveland Country Club. Richard Mathis of Hattiesburg is alone in second place at 5 over par 77. There are three players tied for 3rd place at 78, to round out the top 5. This year's Grand Masters set a record with 17 players vying for a the title of Grand Masters Champion.
Home course knowledge proved beneficial for the Bob Eley(71) and Roger Easely (72), as they are first and second respectively, leading the Super Senior Amateur Championship. Defending champion, Peter Marks of Jackson, fired a one over par 73 to tie Ricky Sims of Canton for the third spot. 2012 Super Senior Champion, Mike Pharr of Hernando, is hold strong in 5th place at 2 over par 74. Our Super Senior Division shatters the record for entries with 52 players teeing is up at Cleveland Country Club on Friday.
Kyle Smith of Summitt, holds the lead in the Senior Amateur Championship by firing a 1 under par, 71 on Friday. Rickey Riley, Brent Thomas, and David Griffin are tied in 2nd at even par. 72. Fantastic fall weather provided for low scores and a great pace of play. Four past champions are playing for second Senior Amateur title for the trophy case. Five Super Senior past champions are chasing another Super Senior title an a spot on the 2018 Governor's Cup. David Holcomb (2015), Larry Wagster (2016, 2011) and Fred Hall(2008) are seeking another Grand Master title this weeekend. A total of 15 past champions from all of the divisions are competing for another Senior Amateur crown.
A huge thank you to Sam Dunning and his staff, Aaron Lasker, General Manager, and the memebership for a wonderful job rolling out the red carpet for the Senior Amateur Championship. Participants enjoyed a social hour, hosted by the Clevelan CC members. Thank you for being a gracious host club.
July 9, 2017 - A New Champion added in this Year's 70th Annual Greenwood Invitational, Joel Myrick
Greenwood, MS - A new champion was crowned this evening at the 70th playing of the Greenwood Invitational. Joel Myrick, of Hattiesburg, took a strong lead over the field this year. Myrick's first round of 66 and second of 69 put him at the top of the leaderboard to begin the final round. Myrick had a one stroke lead over Ben Snow. With a strong showing in the first nine holes where he made five birdies, Myrick only had to coast around the second nine shooting a 36 to take home the hardware. Past Champion and Greenwood native, Alan Ellis made a strong run in the final round where he started four strokes back. Ellis finished runner-up to Myrick.
A great field of 162 of Mississippi and the surrounding state's best amateurs appeared to enjoy another historic year in Greenwood. We look forward to seeing everyone in 2018.
Many thanks to the staff and volunteers at Greenwood Country Club for their continued support of the Invitational to make it another successful year. Many thanks also to new head gold professional at the Greenwood Country Club, John Pielemeier, for his dedication to making the inviatational a success and grand experience for all players. We look forward to returning to Greenwood in the future.
For Complete Results, Click Here.
July 8, 2017 - Several Delays Before the Second Round was off in the Greenwood Invitational
Greenwood, MS - The Second Round began with several disruptions this morning due to lightning and strong storms that stalled west and south of the Greenwood Country Club. Once the morning wave began with a three hour delay in total play continued without disruption. Round 2 was ultimately suspended due to darkness with only one group remaining on the course with holes 17 and 18 to play. Round 3 pairings/flights will be created and posted at approximately 7:15am Sunday. The first tee time is scheduled to be at 8:00am. The field will be flighted into 10 flights following the completion of the second round with approximately half the field in the morning and half in the afternoon wave.
For complete results, click here.
July 7, 2017 - Spinosa Takes a Strong Lead in the Opening Round of Greenwood Invitational
Greenwood, MS - A field of 167 amateur golfers teed it up this morning at the Greenwood Invitational. The morning wave produced several low rounds but towards the end of the afternoon one round came in to top them all. Joseph Spinosa, of Madison, posted the low round of 64, eight under to sit at the top of the leader board. Edward Wall, of Brandon, sits only one behind after posting a 65 in the first round. With 23 players under par in the opening round and 36 holes left to play, the second and third round will certainly make history here in Greenwood.
Players and guests gathered for the player dinner this evening hosted by the Greenwood Country Club. Many thanks to those who play in the invitational year in and year out.
For complete results, click here.
June 18, 2017 - Final Round of the Father-Son Crowns a New Champion and Father-Daughter Repeats Past Win
Jackson, MS - Sons and Daughters gathered this morning at Patrick Farms Golf Club to celebrate their Fathers in a unique way this Father's Day. Eighty three teams would play their final round of the Father-Son/Daughter championship all while enjoying time with their dads.
The Father-Daughter Championship division got started in the morning wave and there was no surprise that Gracie and Robert Willis would come out strong. The 2015 champions would return to win their second title after posting another 61 in the final round. Team Willis finished at 31 under total for the championship.
As the afternoon wave began a handful of teams stood near the top with the potential to reach the two round leaders Jesse and Michael Sunderman. Edward and Davis Wall were two strokes from the leaders but with many years of longing for this title they proved they had what it takes. Edward and David Wall posted a 56 in the final round to bring their 54 hole total to 35 under par. They were overjoyed with this victory that has been many years in the making.
Congratulations and Happy Father's Day to all the players in the 2017 Father-Son/Daughter Championship. We thank you for your participation and look forward to seeing you again next year. A big thank you to Deerfield Golf Club, Country Club of Canton and Patrick Farms for their hospitatlity and preparation for the Championship.
For complete results, click here.
June 17, 2017 - Leads Retained Following the Second Round at the Father-Son/Daughter Championship
Canton, MS - Father-Son and Father-Daughter teams who struck out after the opening round are not losing ground. Gracie and Robert Willis of the Father-Daughter division shaved two strokes off the first round to post a 61 (-11) and bring their 36 hole total to twenty under par. Michael and Jesse Sunderman will begin the clsoing round with a two stroke lead over David and Edward Wall. The Sunderman's 62 at the Country Club of Canton today was just enough to place them in the a comfortable position to begin tomorrow's final round at Patrick Farms Golf Club.
Many thanks to Country Club of Canton and the staff their for hosting a great second round of golf for the championship.
For complete results, click here.
June 16, 2017 - Fathers, Sons and Daughters make a run for the Lead in the Opening Round at Deerfield Golf Club
Canton, MS - As Fathers, Daughters and Sons made their way to Deerfield Golf Club today the Mississippi Golf Association prepared for the Father-Son/Daughter Championship. The field of 85 teams began play at Deerfield and will continue play at Country Club of Canton, Saturday and Patrick Farms Golf Club Sunday. Many low scores came through during the scramble format with notable teams being Jesse and Michael Sunderman who traveled from the Mississippi Gulf Coast for the championship. The Sunderman's posted the low round score of 12-under, 60. This low round is followed by a pair of 61s (-11) by team Justin and Shinny Cockrell and Chris and Jackson Mills.
In the Father-Daughter division Robert and Gracie Willis took an early lead with a 63 (-9). Following close behind were Reagan and Scott Rhodes with 65 (-7). With a remaining 36 holes to plan in the championship it is too early to call who will be victorious this year.
With only a short interruption as a storm blew through the Canton area, we can only hope the remainder of the weekend will be dry.
Many thanks to the staff at Deerfield Golf Club for hosting the opening round and preparing a championship course for these Fathers, Sons and Daughters.
For complete results, click here.
June 11 - Tightly Contested Oxford invitational Does Not Fail to Impress in Final Round
Oxford, MS – The second and final round of the Bank Plus Oxford Invitational continued to see the same stellar play that had happened on Saturday. All of the divisions produced worthy champions and impressive scores. The Men’s division saw lots of great action as first round leader Isaiah Jackson of Golden started the day with a four-stroke lead over Walker J Swaney of Oxford, things would quickly tighten up though. After nine holes Jackson’s lead had shrunk to one, but he continued to grind his way around the course before ultimately posting a five over 77 and an even par total of 144. That would leave Jackson with a one-stroke win over Swaney and Damon Palmer of Tupelo who had a two-day total of 145.
The Senior division was the only to produce a winner who did not hold the lead overnight. Brother Sandifer of Greenville and David Sellers of Madison set the pace with one over 73’s on Saturday. But it was Robert Sanford of Meridian who shot the round of the day for the division. His even par 72 left him at three over 147 for two days and a two stroke win over Chris Mills of Tupelo who shot 73 on Sunday for a five over par total of 149.
Lastly the Super Senior Division saw the continued impressive performance from first round leader Jud Vance of Tupelo. After his first round score of one under 71, he had a two-stroke advantage, but would build on his lead by the time Sunday’s play was over. Vance would post a one over 73 and finish at even par 144. That was good enough for the Super Senior title and a four stoke win over Danny Hooker of Pontotoc. For complete results click here.
June 10, 2017 - Jackson Takes Lead In Opening Round of BankPlus Oxford Invitational
Oxford, MS - Beautiful sunny skies were in place above Country Club of Oxford today as the first round of the BankPlus Oxford Invitational began. The field of 78 players began their round at 8:00am off of the first tee at CCO. In the Men's Division a 67 (5-under par) is in the lead after 18 holes have been completed. That score belongs to Isaiah Jackson of Golden, MS. Jackson made the turn after nine holes today at 4-under par, and kept the birdies rolling to shoot 1-under par on the second nine for a 5-under par total to claim the top spot on the leader board. Jackson had a total of nine birdies in his round today. He has a four stroke lead over Oxford native Walker J. Swaney who is at 1-under par after the first round. In the Senior Division we have a tie at the top of the leaderboard at 73 (1-over par) between Brother Sandifer of Greenville, MS and David Sellers of Madison, MS. Jud Vance of Tupelo, MS posted a very clean 71 (1-under par) to take a two stroke lead in the Super Senior Division. The stage is set for the second round to begin at 8:00am tomorrow morning, we are excited to see how the leaderboard will shape up after the completion of the second round. For complete first round results click here.
June 4, 2017 - Ross Bell Holds the Lead to Secure the State Amateur and other Honors
Third round resumed Sunday morning after play was suspended Saturday, a little over half the field of sixty amateurs were on the course. Following heavy rains on Saturday, the tournament committee found it necessary to play the third round as the final 18 holes, thus making the championship a 54 hole event. The final pairing of Ross Bell, Benjamin Nelson and Joel Myrick played consistently over the first two rounds and were eager to see how the day would play out. Bell had secured a three stroke lead over Benjamin Nelson, while Joel Myrick was only four back from catching Bell. Myrick's advantage of local course knowledge along with his consistent play in the first and second round gave him a favorable start.
Despite his determination and passion, Benjamin Nelson began to lose ground on hole three when a number of bogeys came about. Joel Myrick held on after making the turn and started to make a run with birdies on hole thirteen and fourteen. One might have thought that Myrick would be able to close the gap four strokes between him and Bell.
All Bell would need was consistent play throughout this final round and that is just what he accomplished. Although he posted a number of bogeys, he paired those diffiicult holes with six birdies to bring the final round back to even par, 71. Bell finished at 12-under par, 201 and took home every piece of hardware available during the championship week. Bell was awarded the Mike Magee Memorial Medalist trophy for his opening round score of 63, 8-under. The Charles Green Team Trophy was also awarded to Ross Bell and Benjamin Nelson as the members of Annandale Golf Club with the lowest first and second round combined total of 263, 21 under par. Family and friends gathered near the scoreboard to witness the presentation of these honors, as well as the Sanderson Farms Championship Tournament Director, Steve Jent, and Century Club President, Jeff Hubbard. As the 2017 champion, Ross Bell also receives and exemption to play in the PGA Tour, Sanderson Farms Championship. Jent and Hubbard were onsite to present this additional honor to Bell which will come this October at it's playing at the Country Club of Jackson.
Ross Bell, a member of the Mississippi State University Men's Golf Team, has seen many great accomplishments in his golfing career and now has this championship to add to his list. "Thanks to the MGA," Bell Said, "for putting on an awesome event and to Canebrake for having the golf course in great shape despite the weather. This week was a lot of fun and there were a lot of players that played great golf. I would also like to thank Sanderson Farms for giving Mississippi amateurs an opportunity to play in a PGA Tour event. I am honored to be able to represent our state in October which will be an opportunity of a lifetime." The Tournament Committee and staff of the Mississippi Golf Association sincerely congratulate Ross Bell for this great feat and look forward to seeing him compete in October with PGA Tour Professionals.
Canebrake Country Club was a championship course fitting for this one hundred second playing of the Mississippi Amateur. Returning to Canebrake fifteen years after the first amateur here in 2002 was very fitting for the field of the 120 amateurs seeking a demanding challenge. The staff of Canebrake is to be thanked for their long hours in preparation for the championship. When it comes to the unpredictable weather that we experienced over the entire day, Saturday, superintendent, Russ Simonton, made every effort to ensure the championship field could play under the best conditions possible. Many thanks to Russ Simonton, Roy Jarvis and David Allen for their continued support and welcoming of this championship field of amateur golfers in Mississippi.
For complete results, click here.
June 3, 2017 – Mother Nature takes a toll on the Third Round of the State Amateur
Hattiesburg, MS – After two rounds of great play at Canebrake Country Club, the 60 players that made the cut were never able to fully get out of the gates on Saturday. After more than six hours of delays, the golfers were finally able to head out onto the course, but unfortunately weather proved to be a problem again as the lead groups were only able to make it through four holes before play was officially called for the remainder of the day. The decision was also made for the championship to be reduced to a 54-hole format, with the third round resuming at 9am Sunday morning.
Lastly, a huge thank you to the staff at Canebrake for putting in the time and effort to make the course playable in such rough circumstances.
For complete results, click here.
June 2, 2017 - Birdies for Bell Continued to fall in the Second Round of the State Amateur
Hattiesburg, MS - Wet conditions, due to overnight rain, delayed morning tee times by an hour to begin the second round of the 2017 State Amateur Championship. Groups started teeing off at 8:30am and in the mix was the first round leader, Ross Bell (-8), of Madison. Wilson Furr of Jackson posted a 65 (-6) which was the lowest 18 hole score in the morning wave of the second round to find himself at T4. Once the morning wave was complete Bell turned in a 67 (-4) bringing his 36 hole total to 130 (-12) keeping him at the top of the leaderboard with a 4 stroke lead over Joel Myrick. Hattiesburg Native, Myrick began the morning in second place and posted 70 (-1) today to put him in third place. Things began to heat up in the afternoon wave as Benjamin Nelson, of Madison, paired a 68 (-3) second round score with his first round score of 65 (-6) to pull him into second place at 9 under par.
As the final group posted their scores the cut began to aline on the sixtieth player. The cut is at 5-over par with ten players tied at 5-over. The second round played at 1/2 stroke harder in the second round. However, the second round number of eagles greatly outnumbered those of the first round. Second round eagles totaled 11 while the first totaled 4.
With the completion of the second round we also crown the Charles Green Team champions for the lowest tow round total for two players competing from the same club. In this year's 102nd playing of the Amateur, Ross Bell and Benjamin Nelson, from Annandale will be added to the memorial trophy. Bell and Nelson who sit in first and second place represent Annandale 26 years after they last received it in 1991. The 1991 recipients were Benji Nelson and Rett Crowder. Now Nelson's son will receive the trophy and what an honor it will be. Nelson and Bell finished at 263 total for the First and Second Round, which is 21 under par, most definitely one of the lowest club team totals at the State Amateur.
As sixty players tee it up in Saturday's third round we look forward to seeing how the competition plays out. Many thanks to those who have participated in the State Amateur Championship ad best of luck to those playing this weekend.
For complete results, click here.
June 1, 2017 - Twenty-Nine players under par in the State Amateur Opening Round
Hattiesburg, MS - As the news rippled through Canebrake Country Club, "a 29 on the front nine, seven under on the front nine," the field was only halfway through the afternoon wave of golfers in the State Amateur Championship. Joel Myrick, of Hattiesburg, turned at 29, seven under par. Just when it was thought that this would be the low 9 holes of the day, Ross Bell, turned to the second nine with another 29 on the front. Ross Bell, of Madison, held onto the momentum moving into the second nine holes with an eagle on hole thirteen to finish at 63, eight under par. Ross Bell is awarded the Mike Magee Memorial Medalist trophy for the lowest opening round of the State Amateur. Joel finished the second nine at even par to sit behind Bell by only one stroke at 64. With twenty-nine players under par in the State Amateur Opening Round there is much to see over the next 54 holes of championship golf.
The State Amateur Championship is off to a good start here at Canebrake Country Club. Many thanks to the staff here who have welcomed these 120 elite amateurs in Mississippi. Special thanks to Superintendent, Russ Simonton; General Manager, Roy Jarvis; Head Golf Professional, David Allen for their preparation over the past few months for the most prestigious championship in Mississippi.
For complete results, click here.
May 12-13, 2017 - Team Mississippi Returns with the Governor's Cup in the Bag
Hot Springs Village, Arkansas – The 2017 Governor's Cup between Team Mississippi and Team Arkansas was played at the Hot Springs Village-Granada Course in Arkansas. Each team was comprised of 20 amateur players, Mississippi's Captain, Brother Sandifer of Greenville, led the team to victory. Team Mississippi: Peter Marks, Brother Sandifer, Joey Landrum, Robert Pannell, Paul Hunt, Rickey Riley, David Griffin, David Sellers, Ricky Sims, Greg Brooking, Steve Wilson, Scott Rhodes, Joel Myrick, Josh Lampley, Ethan Smith, Richard Reed, Brett Parker, Brandon Laird, Eddie Brescher III, Rodney Boswell.
Despite the team’s eagerness and enthusiasm to complete the Four-Ball and Foursome scheduled for Friday, the weather proved to take a commanding lead. Friday's round was cancelled due to inclement weather, only allowing for matches to be rescheduled for Saturday. Due to the small window of time, it was decided by the teams and captains, to play a 9 hole match of Four-Ball, 9 hole match of Foursome and an overall Match for all 18 holes. This allowed for all points to be available with simply a shortened format. The front nine worth one point, back nine worth one point and an overall match valued at one point.
Most matches came down to the final eighteenth hole and Mississippi was victorious in securing 18 points to Arkansas’ 12 points. We thank these Mississippi Golf Association for representing Mississippi well. As always, we look forward to another season and to see what the future holds when the Governor’s Cup returns to Mississippi soil in the coming 2018 season. For full results click here.
May 7, 2017 - Lampley adds one to Mid Amateur titles at Northwood Country Club
Meridian, MS - Josh Lampley adds a win to his list of championships over the past few years. With his first Mississippi title coming three years ago at the Mid Amateur Championship, followed by a second at last season's Four-Ball Championship, it was his time again at this weekend's Mid Amateur Championship at Northwood Country Club. Lampley began the final 18 holes with a four stroke lead over another past champion, Steve Wilson (2008). Lampley easily shot even par in the final round to retain his lead by three and win the Mid Amateur title. Wilson finished runner-up at two-under total for the championship followed by Eddie Brescher III at one-under.
The Mississippi Golf Association thanks the entire staff at Northwood Country Club for again opening their doors to amateur golf. Especially thankful to course superintendent, Britt Pollock, for his preparation of a course that is in chamionship condition. Also, to Billy Pomeroy who is always a first-class PGA Professional who Mississippi is lucky to have. We look forward to returning for future championships.
For complete results, click here.
May 6, 2017 - 2015 Mid Am Champion Holds the Lead Moving into the Final Round at Northwood Country Club in the 2017 Mid Amateur
Meridian, MS - Josh Lampley of Gulfport, keeps the lead at Northwood Country Club following 36 holes of the 54 hole state championship. Making the turn to the second nine at one over, Lampley came back on 16 with an eagle and a birdie on 17. Now in the lead by four strokes at 5-under par. Steve Wilson of Gautier, posted a one under par in the second round to move into the second place position starting the third round. 2008 Mid Amateur Champion, Wilson, has some ground to make up at four strokes back from the lead. Eddie Brescher of Hattiesburg,
Thanks to Billy Pomeroy and Britt Pollock for preparing a championship course and welcoming the Mid Amateur field. Follow the final round tomorrow as we expect to have live scoring throughout the final round.
Click here for complete results.
May 5, 2017 - Northwood CC welcomes the Mid Amateur Championship Opening Round
Meridian, MS - It was a cold and windy start for the opening round of the 2017 Mid Amateur Championship cold front moved in overnight to pull temperature down into the high 40s as play started on Friday. With a field of 53 mid amateur participants many past champions and potential future champions were in the lineup.
With only three competitors under par, it is evident that the cool conditions were a test for many. Past Champion, Josh Lampley of Gulfport, sits solely at that the top of the leaderboard after posting 4-under par, 67. Lampley will be awarded the Randy Sullivan Memorial Medalist trophy. Two strokes back are Michael Hammett and Eddie Brescher III at two under par, 69. All great amateur golfers and Brescher coming off the win at the Four-Ball Championship, this will be a great championship to follow as round two gets under way on Saturday.
For complete results, click here.
April 30, 2017 - Four-Ball Championship completed despite strong storms Sunday
Hattiesburg, MS - With forecasted storms approaching on the morning of the final round of the Four-Ball Championship, the tournament committee scheduled the third round to be one 9-hole stipulated round. The field of one hundred teams was almost completely off in the morning when the storms rolled in and play was suspended. The course was quickly unplayable in a short period of time with conditions growing worse. Following some time the championship was deemed to be complete and champions were awarded based on the 36-hole total.
Philip Heine and Eddie Brescher III were awarded the H.G. Weddington Memorial Four-Ball Championship trophy as the two round leaders at 21-under par. Breshcer, University of Southern Mississippi Assistant Coach and USM Men's golf team member, Philip Heine, were a team to be revered finishing six strokes ahead of the runner-up team. Brad Thornton and Richie Williams finished at 15-under par to be awarded the runner-up trophies.
Senior Champions, Rickey Riley and Robert Pannell, were awarded the Stan Hall Senior Four-Ball Memorial trophy for the 36-hole total of 18-under par. They were honored to be awarded the championship in Hall's memory as they were a great friend of the past champion.
The Bill Cass Super Senior Championship was one of the largest fields that the championship has seen beginning with 37 four-ball teams. Following Saturday's round, the team of Houston Allen Smith and David Smith along with Scott Thames and Howard Waugh were tied at 12-under par. The Sam Hall Honorary Four-Ball trophy was awarded to the Smith brothers based on a USGA scorecard playoff. Waugh and Thames were awarded the runner-up crystal trophies.
The Mississippi Golf Association thanks Hattiesburg Country Club for their tireless efforts in preparing a championship course. Especially thankful to superintendent, Frank Ogletree, for working with Tournament Director, Don Hershfelt, to be sure the course was in peak condition for some of the best amateur golf in Mississippi. Also thank you to Golf Professional, John Mullin, and his staff for working with the MGA to welcome and accommodate golfers over the championship. We look forward to returning to Hattiesburg Country Club for future championships.
For complete results, click here.
Final Round of the 2017 State Four-Ball at Hattiesburg CC
Decision of the MGA Tournament committee:
The MGA Tournament committee determined that all flights and divisions will play 9 holes on Sunday as a final stipulated round. This decision was reached based on the weather forecast, future weather models and the amount of daylight available to complete the event. The MGA Tournament committee feels like this gives all of the teams a chance to play golf in the final round.
If all teams within any flight of a division complete 9 holes of play, gift certificates will be awarded in the flight based off the score from the 45 holes that are completed. All ties will be split.
If any team within a flight of a division is unable to complete 9 holes of golf on Sunday, gift certificates will be awarded based on the 36 hole score and all ties will be split.
Please note that if all teams are unable to complete 9 holes within an entire division (Super Senior/Senior/Regular), then the overall division champion will be determined based on the 36 hole score.
If a tie exists for the overall champion in the Regular, Senior or Super Senior Division, and an on course play-off is not possible, then the champions will be determined by the USGA Method of breaking ties, using the last stipulated round completed, the last 9 holes, last 6 holes, last 3 holes, last hole (10-18 for a 18 hole stipulated round; 10-18 for a 9 hole stipulated round-starting on hole #10; 1-9 for a 9 hole stipulated round-starting on hole #1).
The number of holes the entire division completes (36 or 45 holes) will determine the player of the year points awarded points and the overall champion for that division.
For example: If all of the teams in the Senior Division First Flight finishes 9 holes on Sunday, their gift certificates will be determined by their 45 hole score. If the Senior Division Championship Flight has 8 teams finish 9 holes on Sunday and the other 4 teams can’t finish 9 holes on Sunday, then their gift certificates will be determined by their 36 hole score. In this scenario where all teams within the division are unable to complete 45 holes of golf, the overall champion and player of the year points in that division will be determined by the 36 hole score of all teams in that division.
We thank you for all of your for participation and support of the State Four-Ball/Bill Cass Senior Four-Ball MGA Tournament Committee and Staff.
April 28, 2017 - Heine and Brescher dominate the first round of the State Four-Ball Championship
Hattiesburg, MS - Despite a day of predominantly strong winds, the field of top amateur talent in Mississippi still managed to fire low scores in the opening round of the State Four-Ball and Bill Cass Senior Four-Ball Championships. The full field of one hundred teams came eager to play at the historic Hattiesburg Country Club.
Men's Division, Philip Heine and Eddie Brescher, dominate the opening round posting a 13-under, 59. Rickey Riley and Robert Pannell made a strong finish with birdies on the last four holes coming in to shoot a 10-under, 62. The Super Senior division is lead by Chan Henry and Claude Hewitt, both of Madison. Henry and Hewitt are at the top fo the leaderboard with an 8-under, 64. With thirty-six holes left to play, this championship could be some of the lowest records in history.
The dedication and preparation that Hattiesburg Country Club has done did not go unnoticed. Many commented on the championship condition of the course and we thank the club for welcoming these one hundred teams.
For more information, click here.
April 13, 2017 - First Tee of Central Mississippi Open for Business
Jackson, MS - The following was released today as the First Tee of Central Mississippi held a press conference at the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame.
The First Tee of Central Mississippi is on its way to the Jackson metro area. In 2015, Life Enhancement and Achievement Program, Inc. (“LEAP”), a local nonprofit organization in Jackson, was created to establish The First Tee of Central Mississippi, which will soon offer local youth the opportunity to learn the game of golf. Programs will include The First Tee Life Skills Experience, National School Program, Nine Healthy Habits and Nine Core Values where participants learn to utilize life skills and transfer the positive values of golf to everyday life.
The First Tee is an internationally renowned organization founded in 1997. Since then, millions of children from ages seven to eighteen have been served with its life skills curriculum as introduced through golf. The First Tee provides a structured program to teach character education, personal and social responsibility, along with golf instruction. The First Tee of Central Mississippi will provide underprivileged youth with programs and activities that keep them on a safe track to garnering academic, athletic, and social success.
"We are truly excited to host The First Tee, a youth development program that teaches life skills and core values using the game of golf, in Central Mississippi. This organization will provide educational programs that build character, instill life-enhancing values and promote healthy choices, which will have a positive impact on local youth for years to come," said Precious Malembeka, chairman of LEAP.
In addition, several businesses and private donors have made a financial commitment to The First Tee of Central Mississippi. Executive Director Joshua Friedel said, "We are extremely honored to have major organizational supporters such as Joe and Kathy Sanderson, Century Club Charities, the Sanderson Farms Championship and Atmos Energy to name a few. However, it is imperative for long term sustainability and growth of the organization, that we ascertain as many supporters who will join us in our journey of reshaping the lives of many youth that our organization will serve."
Lefleur’s Bluff State Park, which includes a nine-hole public golf course and a driving range, will be the chapter’s host site. The golf course is conveniently and centrally located in Jackson, MS. Other golf courses that will be involved with the program are Sonny Guy, Grove Park and The Refuge. Additional courses in the tri-county are expected. The First Tee of Central Mississippi anticipates beginning classes in June 2017. For more information, visit their website here.
March 10, 2017 - National Lefty Tournament coming to Mississippi
National Association of Left Handed Golfers to Play at Shell Landing in June
Gautier, MS - The National Association of Left Handed Golfers (NALG) is bringing its 82nd National Championship to Mississippi in June of 2017.
"We are excited to bring the NALG back to Mississippi for the first time in many years and only the second time ever," said Chuck Stinson, the founder of Mississippi Lefties and tournament director for the national tournament this year. The tournaments one and only stop in Mississippi was in Olive Branch, MS in 2003.
The 2017 tourney will be played June 19-22 at Shell Landing Golf Club n Gautier, MS.
We get a chance to showcase the Mississippi Gulf Coast and Shell Landing Golf Club in Gautier, one of the great courses, not only Mississippi, but also in the Gulf States Region,” added Stinson.
Golf Digest names Shell Landing among America's Best New Courses of 2002.The January 2003 issue ranked the Davis Love III championship design #5 in America in the Best New Upscale Public category, and the only one inthe top 5 located in the South. In 2007 Shell Landing was recognized by Golf Digest when it was presented the "Architecture Award' in recognition of our outstanding design and was named among the "Best Golf Courses in the State."
We feel like the championship setting that we provide at Shell Landing, combined with the experience of spending a week on Mississippi’s Gulf Coast, will provide a great experience for the lefty golfers that come to play for a national title,” said Kenny Hughes the Chief Executive Officer of Shell Landing and a PGA Professional since 1992.
Tournament sponsors currently include the IP Casino in Biloxi, Mississippi Organ Recovery Agency, CCS Industrial Services, Hederman Brothers Printers and the Lyric Hotel in Cleveland, MS.
For tournament or sponsorship information, you can contact Chuck Stinson at 601-383-1221 or via email at mslefties@yahoo.com
March 1, 2017 - Modernizing the Rules of Golf and the Proposed Changes Announced Today
USGA - A Set of proposed changes to teh Rules of Golf were announced today by the USGA and R&A. These are due to take effect January 1, 2019. The ultimate goal is to modernize the rules and provide some clarity to an often complicated topic. For the complete outline of changes and videos for further explanation, click here.
A period of feedback on the topic is being allowed from the present to August 31, 2017. We have heard many of you speak your opinion in the past and now is a perfect opportunity to let your thoughts be heard. Provide Feedback Here
