The Polish American Tavern erupted into a flood of intoxicating delirium, the old guard standing, shouting “Artski, Sixski,” splattering droplets of Ciechan Pszeniczne into the air.

The five time Champion, oldest  ever to win the title, was challenging the low handicappers, Bohan and Juliano,  for the outright lead in Gross Score. While he no longer has the distance off the tees, his short game seems impervious to age. His chips and putts were generally superb continuing to make him a very competitive opponent. He won Twisted Dune by placing a sweet  93 on the Scorecard, the third lowest score of the day on a difficult tract.  He bested 2nd place finisher Rob Juliano (89) by three strokes with handicap,  and 3rd place finisher, Marc Bohan (88) by  8 strokes. Current Tour Champion Michael Lazarchick, finished 4th also 8 strokes  off the pace and  Tom Gahr last year winner during the fall, this year carrying a hefty 40 handicap, took fifth,  yet another stroke behind Art.

Chuck Cole, the brother-in-law of our current Champion, returned to the OCAGA Tour for the 2021 season after a significant hiatus as a very successful wine maker. Long known for his cooking and baking prowess, he also brings another long driver back on the tour. With him came new rookies Michael Bergen and Joe Champion. Playing with the club champion in the first tournament, despite very little recent play, all three had moments of glory showing potential as the season progresses. Fred also returned posting a 98 to go with his August 2020 tournament at the Vineyards, his only other appearance on the tour. He was respectable there with a 93 and has the requirement for a handicap should he continue in competition.

Past Rookie of the Year Dave Kissinger 2019 and Tom Gahr 2020, both winning tournament already in their young careers, have huge fan bases hoping to see them play well his season. Rumors have it that long time members Mike O’Brien and Eddie Borillo might return this year both experiencing a long healing process on injured reserve. Rich Antzcak and Jeffrey Spickler, Arizona Snow Birds, could do no more than commit possible tournaments, when they return from out west. Andy Swanson, on a world tour, is undaunted missing the openers.

SCATS ~ Rob Juliano gave up a possible great payday by opting out of the money pool. His 89 has nice scores in places to win and block others from taking home the prize. The Doctor benefitted the most, raking in the Lion’s share at $28. Art was second at $18.

NEXT : May 2, 2021 at McCullough’s Emerald Golf Links 1:00 pm $55