It's only December 25th but it feels as if we are deep into winter. Ski season started the Friday before Thanksgiving and I already have 15 days in. So the time has come to declare the golf season over and post the season's results (see Captain's Rankings on the side bar).
Congratulations to Rich Johnson on locking up the overall title for the year. Rich parlayed his three appearances into overall victory by finishing on the plus side in both marks and the game.
John Teegardin, regaining his putting touch after going cross-handed, squeaked past Rich by $1.50 to secure the game title.
The most interesting battle of the year was decided on the last day of play as Jim Mason made four marks on the back nine and earned $12 to leapfrog Brad McAreavy and Doug Lyon and take the mark title.
Not only did Jim take $12 in marks he took $12 in the game to finish the season at +$21.50 finish second place overall and avoid what could have been his first losing season.
Thursday, December 25, 2008
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Is It Over?
At 9 PM November 17th Bristol Mountain officially turned on the snow making. With cold weather expected all week, especially at night, could the Captain and Crew season be over? One can only hope........... after all Skiing is Believing!
Sunday, November 16, 2008
All Is Right With The World
Barack Obama is president-elect and has promised "change" to the American people. And in our little world change was itching to take hold. Jim Mason, the all-time dominant player was mired in a season long slump. With a change in the weather imminent the possibility of a first ever money losing season loomed large.
Saturday was an off day with cool weather and rain so there was no game. Today dawned cold and windy with the threat of lake effect rain and snow.It was looking like another no go until Brad McAreavy put out the call and rounded-up Jim Mason, John Schantz and Bill Schuler. It was 38 degrees with wind gusts of 25 mph. All we needed was a little snow for real captain and crew weather. We got that on the 16th green.
With a four player game and the challenging weather conditions par was a good score and would win many holes. But there would still be 12 marks and considering the weather conditions that was a pretty impressive total.
Both Mason and Schuler birdied #4 and McAreavy hit it to 2 feet on #5 and 10 feet on #8 for birdie. From the back of the tee on #10 it took Schantz a driver and 3-wood from 210 yds to make par for a win. Both Mason and Schantz were teamed-up on #11 and both made birdie for the win. On #14 Schantz hit a solid 3 hybrid from 216 to 10 feet and converted the birdie. But Mason made a sandy for his fourth mark of the day.
As we stood on the 17th tee the wind was blowing hard at 25-30 mph and a quick lake effect snow shower was blowing in. Mason hit driver to the front of the green and two-putted from 50 feet for the greenie and mark #5.
The 18th hole had 8 carryovers on the line. It would be Schantz/Mason vs Schuler/McAreavy. Schantz would hit his approach to 6 feet but Mason would turn out to be the hero. Jim's approach came up 10 feet short of the green. From there he knocked-in the 30 footer for the win and his 6th mark of the day. Jim Mason is back in the black and all is right in the world again. Change won't be coming to the crew this year.
Game Summary: Players: 4 Total Marks: 12 Mark Leader: Jim Mason with 6 Overall Leader: Jim Mason $24
Saturday was an off day with cool weather and rain so there was no game. Today dawned cold and windy with the threat of lake effect rain and snow.It was looking like another no go until Brad McAreavy put out the call and rounded-up Jim Mason, John Schantz and Bill Schuler. It was 38 degrees with wind gusts of 25 mph. All we needed was a little snow for real captain and crew weather. We got that on the 16th green.
With a four player game and the challenging weather conditions par was a good score and would win many holes. But there would still be 12 marks and considering the weather conditions that was a pretty impressive total.
Both Mason and Schuler birdied #4 and McAreavy hit it to 2 feet on #5 and 10 feet on #8 for birdie. From the back of the tee on #10 it took Schantz a driver and 3-wood from 210 yds to make par for a win. Both Mason and Schantz were teamed-up on #11 and both made birdie for the win. On #14 Schantz hit a solid 3 hybrid from 216 to 10 feet and converted the birdie. But Mason made a sandy for his fourth mark of the day.
As we stood on the 17th tee the wind was blowing hard at 25-30 mph and a quick lake effect snow shower was blowing in. Mason hit driver to the front of the green and two-putted from 50 feet for the greenie and mark #5.
The 18th hole had 8 carryovers on the line. It would be Schantz/Mason vs Schuler/McAreavy. Schantz would hit his approach to 6 feet but Mason would turn out to be the hero. Jim's approach came up 10 feet short of the green. From there he knocked-in the 30 footer for the win and his 6th mark of the day. Jim Mason is back in the black and all is right in the world again. Change won't be coming to the crew this year.
Saturday, November 15, 2008
Four for More
It was another 60 degree November Friday so Jim Mason, Brad McAreavy, John Schantz and Bill Schuler had another go at it. Was this the last of the great fall days? And if this is global warming is it such a bad thing? Hey if it wasn't for global warming we'd still be sitting under the mile of glacial ice that was here 20,000 years ago.
With 4 players we had a left right game with no strokes and not a whole lot of action. The big move of the day occurred at #9 where John Schantz hit his approach to 8 feet and made the putt to win a 6 hole carryover. The trend of good shots at #17 continued as all four players hit the green from 215 yds into a mild wind.
Game Summary:
Number of players: 4
Total Marks: 12
Mark Leader: Bill Schuler with 6
Overall Leader: John Schantz $9
Sunday, November 9, 2008
Baker's Dozen
Baker's dozen, that about sums up the game of yours truly, John Schantz, today. Birdie opportunities at 1,2,4,5,7,8,9,10,11,16,17 & 18 plus a short, makable chip on #6. How many went in the hole? None. Zip, zero, zilch, nil, nada, nothing. Tough luck, have a little cheese with your wine, John. Nobody cares!
So, let's talk about all the "lucky" shots everyone else made today.
John Teegardin with the sandy on #3 to a back pin, Jim Mason, Brad McAreavy and Mike Labue with birdies on #6 (Mike's from 45' just off the green). Rich Johnson from 25' for birdie and team win on #8 -nice recovery after missing the 2 1/2 footer for a team win on #7. Johnson, again, from 30' just off the front of #11 for the only field birdie to tie the team of Schantz & Jim Mason. LaBue from 25' on #13 for a great birdie, as we played from the back tee, for a field win. Johnson for the birdie, greenie on #14 and a team win. McAreavy for the sandy, birdie on #16, making the 15 footer for what turned out to be a team win. All told there was a season high 18 marks today
Last but not least, John "ATM" Teegardin on #18. John is the only person with a stroke and Mike LaBue was the lucky man as Mike was chosen captain. John punched the buttons, made his routine net 3 and walked away with our money again.
With all the marks and the win on #18 it was either a big win or big loss day for everyone. No one could hide in the weeds and skate by with minimal damage. The smallest loser was -$12.50 and the smallest winner was +$8.5 everyone else was above or below those amounts.
Special mention must be made of Mike "I've never gotten a good break in this game in my life" LaBue's game results today at +$19.5. His second best day ever and a season high. Mike was finally in the right place at the right time and he helped his own cause with the nice birdies on #6 & #13.
Game Summary:
Number of players: 7
Total Marks: 16
Mark Leader: Rich Johnson with 5
Overall Leader: Rich Johnson & Mike LaBue $15.50 each.
Saturday, November 8, 2008
Bombs Away
On a seasonably cool and cloudy fall day Brad McAreavy continued his recent fine play and unleashed a number of major bombs off the tee.
His big tee shot on #1 led to his selection by captain Mike Labue. Much to Mike's chagrin Brad's 3-putt led to a team loss. Brad rebounded on #2 as another immense drive was rewarded by Doug Lyon. Brad rode Doug's coat tails as Doug made 4 for 3 and a team win. Brad captained #3 and hit still another monster drive but the hole was halved as both Doug and Brad made 4 for 3.
Just to prove it's not all about driving Brad took the greenie on #4. Of course there's also the mental side to this game. That means you should always check the ball you are going to hit. Brad's third shot on #6 was nullified when he discovered he hit Mike Labue's ball. It only cost him a shot at a birdie putt as the hole was halved with pars.
Brad made up for his error as he led the field to a win on #9 with a birdie and 6-hole carryover win. Two more massive drives on #11 & #12 led to two more birdies. His drive on #12 ended up pin high just left of the green. Displaying uncommon touch he almost holed the eagle chip. The birdie putt was conceded for the team win.
Another prodigious poke was rewarded as Jim Mason selected Brad on #15. Brad did not disappoint Jim as he made 4 for 3 and another team win.
The "I'm not playing that great but I'm still thinking" award goes to Jim Mason. John Schantz selected Jim as his partner on #11 and Jim's third shot came to rest on an upslope 12' past the pin. At this point things weren't looking too good for the team. However, Jim was convinced the ball could not stay where it was. While everyone else was putting Jim waited for his ball to move and of course it did. When it finally stopped rolling he was left with a straight forward 4 1/2 footer which he holed for the tie.
For the second time in as many weeks Doug hit a boring 3-wood on #17 to 15' from 217 yards into the breeze. This time he could not convert the birdie but made the par for his fourth mark on the back nine.
After the tie on #17 the 18th was worth 6 carryovers. Mike LaBue was captain and had a difficult decision. Take Jim Mason who would follow Mike or wait for Rocky who would hit next to last and was stroking. Mike flipped the coin and took Jim.
In another "you gotta be kidding me moment" Mike watched as Rocky's third shot from 50 yards rolled up to 1' and the 4 for 3 was conceded. Jim was lying 2 20' from the hole and Mike was in the rough just off the green chipping for 3. Mike calmly stepped-up to his ball and.........chipped it in for the birdie and halve. Just proving you make you own luck. Nicely done!
Game Summary: His big tee shot on #1 led to his selection by captain Mike Labue. Much to Mike's chagrin Brad's 3-putt led to a team loss. Brad rebounded on #2 as another immense drive was rewarded by Doug Lyon. Brad rode Doug's coat tails as Doug made 4 for 3 and a team win. Brad captained #3 and hit still another monster drive but the hole was halved as both Doug and Brad made 4 for 3.
Just to prove it's not all about driving Brad took the greenie on #4. Of course there's also the mental side to this game. That means you should always check the ball you are going to hit. Brad's third shot on #6 was nullified when he discovered he hit Mike Labue's ball. It only cost him a shot at a birdie putt as the hole was halved with pars.
Brad made up for his error as he led the field to a win on #9 with a birdie and 6-hole carryover win. Two more massive drives on #11 & #12 led to two more birdies. His drive on #12 ended up pin high just left of the green. Displaying uncommon touch he almost holed the eagle chip. The birdie putt was conceded for the team win.
Another prodigious poke was rewarded as Jim Mason selected Brad on #15. Brad did not disappoint Jim as he made 4 for 3 and another team win.
The "I'm not playing that great but I'm still thinking" award goes to Jim Mason. John Schantz selected Jim as his partner on #11 and Jim's third shot came to rest on an upslope 12' past the pin. At this point things weren't looking too good for the team. However, Jim was convinced the ball could not stay where it was. While everyone else was putting Jim waited for his ball to move and of course it did. When it finally stopped rolling he was left with a straight forward 4 1/2 footer which he holed for the tie.
For the second time in as many weeks Doug hit a boring 3-wood on #17 to 15' from 217 yards into the breeze. This time he could not convert the birdie but made the par for his fourth mark on the back nine.
After the tie on #17 the 18th was worth 6 carryovers. Mike LaBue was captain and had a difficult decision. Take Jim Mason who would follow Mike or wait for Rocky who would hit next to last and was stroking. Mike flipped the coin and took Jim.
In another "you gotta be kidding me moment" Mike watched as Rocky's third shot from 50 yards rolled up to 1' and the 4 for 3 was conceded. Jim was lying 2 20' from the hole and Mike was in the rough just off the green chipping for 3. Mike calmly stepped-up to his ball and.........chipped it in for the birdie and halve. Just proving you make you own luck. Nicely done!
Players 5
Total Marks 13
Mark Leader - McAreavy with 5
Money Leader - McAreavy $20
Thursday, November 6, 2008
Welcome Back JR
One of the all time money leaders and long ball hitter JR McCarthy made his annual appearance today. Unfortunately, JR hadn't played in 3 weeks and his career earnings took a small hit.
Not much action on the front nine as 7 holes were tied. The big highlights were Jim Mason's sandy on #3 to a back pin position and Rich Johnson's net 3 and team win on #7 with a blood sugar level of 42 (He said that was a big deal so I'll take his word for it!).
Low lights included the fact that we all missed the green on #4 from 143 yds to the center hole-in-one pin placement. Pretty pathetic.
Oh, and the other low light? Jim Mason 3-putted from 5 feet on #9 to allow John Schantz & Rich Johnson a team win for those 7 carryover holes. Jeez, that's twice in one week I have been the beneficiary of a Mason 3-putt. Maybe I should buy a lottery ticket because Jim 3-putts about twice a year not twice a week.
The back nine also featured 7 ties. Jim Mason made a nice birdie on #13 hitting his approach to a back right pin to 3 feet. Another low point occurred on #16 where no birdies were recorded.
The single worst shot of the day was hit by yours truly, John Schantz, on #17 when I almost whiffed my tee shot. I was the last hitter and no one else had hit the green so Rich Johnson was forced to pick me as his partner. The tee shot ended up about 50 yards off the tee near the mounds on #16. From there I punched it just short of the green with the pin all the way back right and then made the 70 foot chip shot for a tie. Easy 3!!
With 7 carryovers available on #18 the hole was tied with pars.
Game Summary:
Players 5
Marks 11
Mark Leader - McAreavy with 4
Money Leader - Johnson $8
Not much action on the front nine as 7 holes were tied. The big highlights were Jim Mason's sandy on #3 to a back pin position and Rich Johnson's net 3 and team win on #7 with a blood sugar level of 42 (He said that was a big deal so I'll take his word for it!).
Low lights included the fact that we all missed the green on #4 from 143 yds to the center hole-in-one pin placement. Pretty pathetic.
Oh, and the other low light? Jim Mason 3-putted from 5 feet on #9 to allow John Schantz & Rich Johnson a team win for those 7 carryover holes. Jeez, that's twice in one week I have been the beneficiary of a Mason 3-putt. Maybe I should buy a lottery ticket because Jim 3-putts about twice a year not twice a week.
The back nine also featured 7 ties. Jim Mason made a nice birdie on #13 hitting his approach to a back right pin to 3 feet. Another low point occurred on #16 where no birdies were recorded.
The single worst shot of the day was hit by yours truly, John Schantz, on #17 when I almost whiffed my tee shot. I was the last hitter and no one else had hit the green so Rich Johnson was forced to pick me as his partner. The tee shot ended up about 50 yards off the tee near the mounds on #16. From there I punched it just short of the green with the pin all the way back right and then made the 70 foot chip shot for a tie. Easy 3!!
With 7 carryovers available on #18 the hole was tied with pars.
Game Summary:
Players 5
Marks 11
Mark Leader - McAreavy with 4
Money Leader - Johnson $8
Dow 7000
I know, you don't read this blog for stock reports. But I just need to record this so no one forgets.
On the 15th tee Jim Mason was checking the stock report for the day and claiming that all was well with world now that the election was over with and even the market wasn't doing too bad.
I claimed the DJIA would hit 7000 before it got back to 10,000 and I would put a whole dollar on that belief. After accepting the bet and a long pause he asked the question I was fearing "are we going to put a time limit on this?".
We agreed on 2 years. Of course I always have an out - we did not specify closing price or intra day price.
Didn't I say something about never betting against Mason a few weeks ago?
On Nov 6, 2008 the DJIA closed at 8695 completing a 2-day loss of 1,000 point.
On the 15th tee Jim Mason was checking the stock report for the day and claiming that all was well with world now that the election was over with and even the market wasn't doing too bad.
I claimed the DJIA would hit 7000 before it got back to 10,000 and I would put a whole dollar on that belief. After accepting the bet and a long pause he asked the question I was fearing "are we going to put a time limit on this?".
We agreed on 2 years. Of course I always have an out - we did not specify closing price or intra day price.
Didn't I say something about never betting against Mason a few weeks ago?
On Nov 6, 2008 the DJIA closed at 8695 completing a 2-day loss of 1,000 point.
Sunday, November 2, 2008
Trifecta!
Another bright, sunny (but frosty) morning greeted the crew and wrapped-up a three day weekend of golf. And that's about the most exciting news of the day.
No eagles, no chip-ins, no crushing defeats or miracle saves. I guess the most interesting thing was the Jim Mason / Brad McAreavy team win on #9 with 6 carryovers. But even that was boring as they won with a par after the field made a multitude of errors.
Thanks to Rob Turner for making a cameo appearance and small donation. Bring your friends next time, we're tired of beating on each other!
Game Summary:
Players 6
Marks 15
Mark Leader - McAreavy with 4
Money Leader - McAreavy $15
No eagles, no chip-ins, no crushing defeats or miracle saves. I guess the most interesting thing was the Jim Mason / Brad McAreavy team win on #9 with 6 carryovers. But even that was boring as they won with a par after the field made a multitude of errors.
Thanks to Rob Turner for making a cameo appearance and small donation. Bring your friends next time, we're tired of beating on each other!
Game Summary:
Players 6
Marks 15
Mark Leader - McAreavy with 4
Money Leader - McAreavy $15
College Boy Gets Schooled
Brighton H.S. graduate and Colgate sophomore John Lyon returned for a weekend visit with his parents and a game with the crew.
There is no questioning John's enthusiasm for both golf and "the game". However, young Mr. Lyon was apparently feeling a little overconfident and after a birdie at #2 and there were some allegations of over celebrating and a little trash talking.
The veterans of this game know it doesn't usually pay to get too cocky. Don't count your money while you are still playing and if you make a mark, smile and move on. There are those who might take offense to anyone fooling with the karma of the crew. Some of us are even capable of making others pay for their brashness. Too many things are out of your control and it doesn't take much to get your hat handed to you - as Mr. Lyon was soon to find out.
On #9 Brad McAreavy made a fine birdie for the team and a 7-hole carryover win. Guess who was in the field? Yep, the adolescent Mr. Lyon.
Then, just to pour a little salt in the wound, John was part of a team loss on #18 with a 4-hole carryover. Little could John have know that he would be schooled by none other than John Rockefeller. John, a non factor all day and only 12 months removed from his death bed, would get up and down from 90 yards, making a 25 foot putt for a net 3. Once again proving "never let the stroker beat you" is a common refrain for a reason.
Rocky was the oldest player in the game today and John Lyon the youngest (about a 50 year spread!). Maybe this really was the revenge of the crew!
Note: The above story is second hand as I was not present. Since I was not there I can only relate the best (worst?) story of the day as it told to me and not the many fine shots that must have been played. I have a general rule that this blog should celebrate good play and not dwell on the misfortunes that befall all of us who play. However, when a youthful upstart messes with our karma he must be willing to pay the price. John has even had some success at this game in the past. Now he knows - when you play this game you are playing with fire and even the best of us get burned once in a while.
Game Summary: There is no questioning John's enthusiasm for both golf and "the game". However, young Mr. Lyon was apparently feeling a little overconfident and after a birdie at #2 and there were some allegations of over celebrating and a little trash talking.
The veterans of this game know it doesn't usually pay to get too cocky. Don't count your money while you are still playing and if you make a mark, smile and move on. There are those who might take offense to anyone fooling with the karma of the crew. Some of us are even capable of making others pay for their brashness. Too many things are out of your control and it doesn't take much to get your hat handed to you - as Mr. Lyon was soon to find out.
On #9 Brad McAreavy made a fine birdie for the team and a 7-hole carryover win. Guess who was in the field? Yep, the adolescent Mr. Lyon.
Then, just to pour a little salt in the wound, John was part of a team loss on #18 with a 4-hole carryover. Little could John have know that he would be schooled by none other than John Rockefeller. John, a non factor all day and only 12 months removed from his death bed, would get up and down from 90 yards, making a 25 foot putt for a net 3. Once again proving "never let the stroker beat you" is a common refrain for a reason.
Rocky was the oldest player in the game today and John Lyon the youngest (about a 50 year spread!). Maybe this really was the revenge of the crew!
Note: The above story is second hand as I was not present. Since I was not there I can only relate the best (worst?) story of the day as it told to me and not the many fine shots that must have been played. I have a general rule that this blog should celebrate good play and not dwell on the misfortunes that befall all of us who play. However, when a youthful upstart messes with our karma he must be willing to pay the price. John has even had some success at this game in the past. Now he knows - when you play this game you are playing with fire and even the best of us get burned once in a while.
Carryovers to 9 & 18
Players 7
Marks 9
Mark Leader - Mason with 4
Money Leader - Mason $18
Friday, October 31, 2008
SPOOKED!
Today was a brilliant, but windy Halloween Friday afternoon.
Who would get tricked and who would get treated? Were there any ghoulish stories that will give anyone nightmares?
There were no horror stories on the front nine as 6 holes were won and the 9th was halved. However, the ghosts and goblins finally showed up down the stretch.
John Schantz and Dave Fries made a Houdini like escape on #16 when Jim Mason's 2 1/2 foot birdie putt for a field win was knocked off-line by a mysterious force and missed.
But Doug Lyon slayed his demons by lacing a 208 yard 3-wood into a 25 mph wind on #17 and converted the birdie for a team win. Looks like Doug will be sleeping well and Jim might be tossing and turning.
But wait!
The story is just starting to get interesting.
After being tricked for two holes the field was in a foul mood heading to #18 where an 8-hole carryover was at stake. Brad McAreavy was pulled as captain and drove long and right into the trees. He chose to laugh in the face of danger and took Doug Lyon as his partner, passing on the opportunity to see Jim Mason's drive ("Never wait for the last hitter").
Brad waded into the dark forest and hit a brilliant recovery that had the field quaking at its magnificence.
But it was growing dark and the Halloween spirits must have spooked the team as they failed to convert their par chances and the field enjoyed an early Halloween treat.
Will Doug be able to sleep at night? Will Brad? Heck, will I after writing this drivel? Stayed tuned for the sequel..................
Game Summary:
Players 5 (6 on back 9 for 7 holes)
Marks 10
Mark Leader - Schantz and Lyon with 4 each
Overall Leader - Schantz $21
Who would get tricked and who would get treated? Were there any ghoulish stories that will give anyone nightmares?
There were no horror stories on the front nine as 6 holes were won and the 9th was halved. However, the ghosts and goblins finally showed up down the stretch.
John Schantz and Dave Fries made a Houdini like escape on #16 when Jim Mason's 2 1/2 foot birdie putt for a field win was knocked off-line by a mysterious force and missed.
But Doug Lyon slayed his demons by lacing a 208 yard 3-wood into a 25 mph wind on #17 and converted the birdie for a team win. Looks like Doug will be sleeping well and Jim might be tossing and turning.
But wait!
The story is just starting to get interesting.
After being tricked for two holes the field was in a foul mood heading to #18 where an 8-hole carryover was at stake. Brad McAreavy was pulled as captain and drove long and right into the trees. He chose to laugh in the face of danger and took Doug Lyon as his partner, passing on the opportunity to see Jim Mason's drive ("Never wait for the last hitter").
Brad waded into the dark forest and hit a brilliant recovery that had the field quaking at its magnificence.
But it was growing dark and the Halloween spirits must have spooked the team as they failed to convert their par chances and the field enjoyed an early Halloween treat.
Will Doug be able to sleep at night? Will Brad? Heck, will I after writing this drivel? Stayed tuned for the sequel..................
Game Summary:
Players 5 (6 on back 9 for 7 holes)
Marks 10
Mark Leader - Schantz and Lyon with 4 each
Overall Leader - Schantz $21
Sunday, October 26, 2008
Mack has Nack for Cash
Smooth swinging Ron Mack joined the crew today in his first appearance in two years. Ron doesn't join the game too often but when he does he has a habit of taking our money.
Teaming with John Teegardin the 73 years young Mack used his 6 handicap to make 4 for 3 on #18 to win a five hole carryover and cash out $18 on the game.
Dave Fries had a nice chip-in for birdie 2 to a back left pin from long & left on #4. Dave also made birdie on #9 to win a 6-hole carryover for the field.
Game Summary:
Carryovers to 9 & 18
Players 6
Marks 13
Mark Leader - Schantz with 5
Money Leader - Teegardin $17 each
Teaming with John Teegardin the 73 years young Mack used his 6 handicap to make 4 for 3 on #18 to win a five hole carryover and cash out $18 on the game.
Dave Fries had a nice chip-in for birdie 2 to a back left pin from long & left on #4. Dave also made birdie on #9 to win a 6-hole carryover for the field.
Game Summary:
Carryovers to 9 & 18
Players 6
Marks 13
Mark Leader - Schantz with 5
Money Leader - Teegardin $17 each
Fries, Bronson Capture Red, White and Black
Dave Fries and Dylan Bronson captured the Red, White and Black title. If you are going to ditch the game for a silly season event at least make it worthwhile.
Congratulations.
Congratulations.
Never, EVER Bet Against Mason
The big story of the day (October 19) was a par by Jim Mason on #12 (East Course).
The 100 foot putt in a putting contest at Yahnandasis C.C wasn't enough. Nor was the par from short of the drainage ditch on #18 in the Harmon Cup to win his match and the cup. Or even the par from the left rough on #16 East with a driver in 40 degree weather into a 20 mph wind over two bunkers to a tucked pin for birdie.
Let's not forget the three club championships and numerous other golfing feats and even the fact that he's a really nice guy.
Nope, some people just can't resist the urge to bet against Jim Mason.
So let's set it up for those who weren't there. Jim was last to tee off and hit some kind of ugly low, pull hook ground ball that managed to clear the creek in front of the tee, clank off the trees bordering the maintenance road, bounce across the road towards the 6th green. At one point it looked as if it would go in the creek by #6 and finally came to rest maybe 100 yards off the tee between the road and the creek.
As the ball was bouncing across the road Brad McAreavy comments "let's see him make par from there". Having witnessed more than my share of the above described feats I instantly offer to take the bet if I get 10 to 1 odds.
Brad accepted just as Jim launched a 3 wood to the end of the fairway. Now all he had to do was get up and down from 75 yards to a back left pin - I figured my odds had now gone up to 50/50.
You know the rest of the story; Jim made the 15 footer for par and we split the $10. Brad was last heard mumbling something about the fact that losing $10 wasn't as bad as the fact that I was going to put the story in the blog.
He was right.
The other big highlights of the day were my greenie, birdie, loner on #15 and the fine mark performance by John Teegardin (5 or 6 marks).
Unfortunately, I had to leave right after the round and the crew did not keep the scorecard so there are no results to report.
The 100 foot putt in a putting contest at Yahnandasis C.C wasn't enough. Nor was the par from short of the drainage ditch on #18 in the Harmon Cup to win his match and the cup. Or even the par from the left rough on #16 East with a driver in 40 degree weather into a 20 mph wind over two bunkers to a tucked pin for birdie.
Let's not forget the three club championships and numerous other golfing feats and even the fact that he's a really nice guy.
Nope, some people just can't resist the urge to bet against Jim Mason.
So let's set it up for those who weren't there. Jim was last to tee off and hit some kind of ugly low, pull hook ground ball that managed to clear the creek in front of the tee, clank off the trees bordering the maintenance road, bounce across the road towards the 6th green. At one point it looked as if it would go in the creek by #6 and finally came to rest maybe 100 yards off the tee between the road and the creek.
As the ball was bouncing across the road Brad McAreavy comments "let's see him make par from there". Having witnessed more than my share of the above described feats I instantly offer to take the bet if I get 10 to 1 odds.
Brad accepted just as Jim launched a 3 wood to the end of the fairway. Now all he had to do was get up and down from 75 yards to a back left pin - I figured my odds had now gone up to 50/50.
You know the rest of the story; Jim made the 15 footer for par and we split the $10. Brad was last heard mumbling something about the fact that losing $10 wasn't as bad as the fact that I was going to put the story in the blog.
He was right.
The other big highlights of the day were my greenie, birdie, loner on #15 and the fine mark performance by John Teegardin (5 or 6 marks).
Unfortunately, I had to leave right after the round and the crew did not keep the scorecard so there are no results to report.
Saturday, October 18, 2008
Opening Day Decimated by Defections
It was a classic October day in Rochester, NY. Cool temps, black lake effect clouds highlighted with brilliant sunshine and even some lake effect sprinkles. With aerification delayed until next week there was even the rare opportunity for an East course game.
In short all the ingredients for the long anticipated Captain and Crew opening day at Oak Hill CC were in place. Only one thing was missing for a special opening day.
Players.
Where was the flock? Home sick? Jumping off tall buildings after reading their September investment account statements? No. They were playing in the Red, White and Black Tournament. A true silly season event instead of Captain and Crew? Traitors!
Dave Fries, Dylan Bronson and Mike LaBue. We now know where your loyalties lie!
Schantz, Mason, McAreavy and Teegardin settled for a left, right game. Nothing special to report other than the obligatory Mason 30 foot birdie on the last hole to save himself and McAreavy from a 7 hole carryover loss.
Game Summary:
Left, Right game
Carryovers to 9 &18
Players 4
Marks 9
Mark leader - Mason with 4
Money Leader - Mason $8.00
In short all the ingredients for the long anticipated Captain and Crew opening day at Oak Hill CC were in place. Only one thing was missing for a special opening day.
Players.
Where was the flock? Home sick? Jumping off tall buildings after reading their September investment account statements? No. They were playing in the Red, White and Black Tournament. A true silly season event instead of Captain and Crew? Traitors!
Dave Fries, Dylan Bronson and Mike LaBue. We now know where your loyalties lie!
Schantz, Mason, McAreavy and Teegardin settled for a left, right game. Nothing special to report other than the obligatory Mason 30 foot birdie on the last hole to save himself and McAreavy from a 7 hole carryover loss.
Game Summary:
Left, Right game
Carryovers to 9 &18
Players 4
Marks 9
Mark leader - Mason with 4
Money Leader - Mason $8.00
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Schuler & LaBue in Solid Form
Bill Schuler and Mike LaBue had a fine tournament at the Ridgemont two-man best ball last week capturing first place in the first flight. Not bad for a pair of "senior" golfers. There was, however, a rumor that it could be unwise to stand forward and to the right of Mike :)
Baker fires a Stellar 66
2008 OHCC club championship runner-up Shawn Baker fired a stellar round of 66 on the East Course (Blue Tees) this past Sunday. Shawn's fine round was a follow-up to a seemingly fine, but pale by comparison, round of 70 on Saturday.
Four under for the weekend, that's pretty strong.
Dr. Jim Mason was asked about Shawn's Saturday round and commented "It was maybe the best round I've ever seen".
When Jim continued to gush about Shaw's ball striking yours truely, John Schantz, was finally compelled to remind the fine doctor he had witnessed my 65 a few years ago. Not missing a beat Jim replied "Yeah, well you made a bunch of putts".
For the record, Jim, I hit 15 greens and took 28 putts so the ball striking wasn't too bad and the putting was only slightly above average.
Either way 66 from the blues beats me, what a great round of golf. We'll have to convince Shawn to join us for a few fall rounds this year. Maybe he can get in Mason's back pocket.
Four under for the weekend, that's pretty strong.
Dr. Jim Mason was asked about Shawn's Saturday round and commented "It was maybe the best round I've ever seen".
When Jim continued to gush about Shaw's ball striking yours truely, John Schantz, was finally compelled to remind the fine doctor he had witnessed my 65 a few years ago. Not missing a beat Jim replied "Yeah, well you made a bunch of putts".
For the record, Jim, I hit 15 greens and took 28 putts so the ball striking wasn't too bad and the putting was only slightly above average.
Either way 66 from the blues beats me, what a great round of golf. We'll have to convince Shawn to join us for a few fall rounds this year. Maybe he can get in Mason's back pocket.
Mason Nabs Mid-Am Spot
One day after failing to qualify for the 2008 club championship Jim Mason fired a fine round of 75 for a T-2 at Ridgemont CC in the NYSGA Mid-Am qualifier. We'll be watching closely to see how Jim fairs in the main event.
Monday, September 1, 2008
2008 Championship Round-Up
Labor Day weekend has wrapped and so has the 2008 OHCC Club Championship.
The Crew was well represented in the Championship flight including: Dave Fries, defending champion and #1 seed Andrew Kay, 3rd seed John Schantz, 7th seed Mike LaBue, 12th seed JR McCarthy, 15th seed.
Unfortunately, with the exception of Andrew Kay, all bowed out in the first round. AK fell to eventual champion Carter Lucas in a semifinal match.
Highlights of championship week included John Schantz's 71 in the West Course qualifying round and JR McCarthy qualifying through a 6 man for 2 spot playoff. It was JR's 7th play-in through a playoff in 8 chances.
Both Jim Mason and Doug Lyon just missed out, losing in the playoff for one of the final two spots. Mike LaBue got in despite a quadruple bogey 7 on #17 West after an adventure in the left hand green side bunker.
Both Schantz and Fries fell in 19 hole matches and McCarthy held a 2-up lead over Carter Lucas through 11 holes before succumbing.
Kudos to crew members Jim Mason and Bill Schuler (over Dylan Bronson) for winning the first and second flights respectively. A small consolation prize for missing out on the "Big" flight.
As always lots of excitement, drama and disappointment.
Congratulations to Crater Lucas who secured his 7th club championship title. Six weeks until the flock takes wing again!
The Crew was well represented in the Championship flight including: Dave Fries, defending champion and #1 seed Andrew Kay, 3rd seed John Schantz, 7th seed Mike LaBue, 12th seed JR McCarthy, 15th seed.
Unfortunately, with the exception of Andrew Kay, all bowed out in the first round. AK fell to eventual champion Carter Lucas in a semifinal match.
Highlights of championship week included John Schantz's 71 in the West Course qualifying round and JR McCarthy qualifying through a 6 man for 2 spot playoff. It was JR's 7th play-in through a playoff in 8 chances.
Both Jim Mason and Doug Lyon just missed out, losing in the playoff for one of the final two spots. Mike LaBue got in despite a quadruple bogey 7 on #17 West after an adventure in the left hand green side bunker.
Both Schantz and Fries fell in 19 hole matches and McCarthy held a 2-up lead over Carter Lucas through 11 holes before succumbing.
Kudos to crew members Jim Mason and Bill Schuler (over Dylan Bronson) for winning the first and second flights respectively. A small consolation prize for missing out on the "Big" flight.
As always lots of excitement, drama and disappointment.
Congratulations to Crater Lucas who secured his 7th club championship title. Six weeks until the flock takes wing again!
Monday, August 11, 2008
USGA Mid -Am Qualifier at Oak Hill
The United States Golf Association Mid-Amateur Qualifier was held on the West Course today. Five spots and two alternates were at stake for the field of 78 golfers.
Oak Hill was represented by John Schantz (77), Jim Mason (76), Chuck Ryan (79), Mark Dugan (77) and Matt Weins (76). Unfortunately, none of the Oak Hillers scored low enough to move on to the national finals.
The West Course proved to be a tough test for the mid-am field with the low score of the day being two players at 71 (one over par as the course was played at a par of 70). Two more players posted 72 and four players at 73 played-off for the one remaining spot and two alternate spots.
Crew member Rich Johnson was the tournament chair and responsible for course set-up. Of note was Rich's use of the #17 East back tee on the 15th hole - something the crew tried a few times last fall. The tee on #16 was right out of the Captain's game as it was tucked way left requiring a hard draw tee shot. All in all Rich set up the course tough but fair.
It was a great event and a thrill to play a USGA event on our home course.
Monday, June 16, 2008
Crew Members Anchor Harmon Cup Victory
The annual Harmon Cup matches were held on June 14th and 15th and the Crew was well represented.
Captain Harmon's team featured 2007 club champ Dave Fries and crew member Brad McAreavy while Captain Hoff's team had crew members Jim Mason, Dylan Bronson, Doug Lyon and John Schantz.
Following day one's alternate shot and four ball format Captain Harmon's team held a slight edge with a 6 1/2 - 5 1/2 lead and the stage was set for the singles match showdown on Sunday.
In true Captain and Crew tradition Mason, Schantz and McAreavy teed it up on the West course at 7:00 AM for a quick 18 hole warm-up before the big event with Mason beating both Schantz and McAreavy while the latter two split their match.
In the big event Jim Mason, regaining form not seen in years, dispatched of young upstart Ross Pino 6 & 7. Meanwhile Doug Lyon took off his shirt and shoes, climbed into Allen's Creek on #5 to hit his shot. Only Jamie Lamb could inspire Doug to go to such lengths as he disposed of Jamie 5 &4.
Dylan Bronson continued to suffer from a case of the lip-out-skis and was not able to secure a win.
As the matches wound down it became clear that the second to last match of the day between John Schantz and 2006 club champ Matt Weins would determine the winner of the Harmon Cup. After Schantz had been down 3 early in the match the pair went to 18 all square where a half was needed to secure the cup for Captain Hoff.
Schantz left his second at the end of the fairway just short of the hill up to the green while Weins hit the green but was left with a tricky 30 putt from above the right front hole location. Schantz hit a delicate lob shot to 4 feet while Weins hit his putt 7 feet past the hole and missed the comeback. Schantz holed out the putt for par and the improbable upset was complete.
Captain Harmon's team featured 2007 club champ Dave Fries and crew member Brad McAreavy while Captain Hoff's team had crew members Jim Mason, Dylan Bronson, Doug Lyon and John Schantz.
Following day one's alternate shot and four ball format Captain Harmon's team held a slight edge with a 6 1/2 - 5 1/2 lead and the stage was set for the singles match showdown on Sunday.
In true Captain and Crew tradition Mason, Schantz and McAreavy teed it up on the West course at 7:00 AM for a quick 18 hole warm-up before the big event with Mason beating both Schantz and McAreavy while the latter two split their match.
In the big event Jim Mason, regaining form not seen in years, dispatched of young upstart Ross Pino 6 & 7. Meanwhile Doug Lyon took off his shirt and shoes, climbed into Allen's Creek on #5 to hit his shot. Only Jamie Lamb could inspire Doug to go to such lengths as he disposed of Jamie 5 &4.
Dylan Bronson continued to suffer from a case of the lip-out-skis and was not able to secure a win.
As the matches wound down it became clear that the second to last match of the day between John Schantz and 2006 club champ Matt Weins would determine the winner of the Harmon Cup. After Schantz had been down 3 early in the match the pair went to 18 all square where a half was needed to secure the cup for Captain Hoff.
Schantz left his second at the end of the fairway just short of the hill up to the green while Weins hit the green but was left with a tricky 30 putt from above the right front hole location. Schantz hit a delicate lob shot to 4 feet while Weins hit his putt 7 feet past the hole and missed the comeback. Schantz holed out the putt for par and the improbable upset was complete.
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