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GolfClubAtlas.com => Golf Course Architecture => Topic started by: JReese on January 16, 2019, 03:45:46 PM

Title: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019 (Reply #38 For Bracket)
Post by: JReese on January 16, 2019, 03:45:46 PM
It's that time of the year again....if you're interested in playing provide your name and location.  I will do my best to minimize drive time and try to make sure there are no duplicate match-ups from previous years, at least for the first round or two.  Also, this year there will be firm deadlines for matches to be completed so that nobody is left hanging as has happened previously. 


There was a good suggestion made last year to set up a day to complete 1st and 2nd round matches.  If anyone has any venues in mind, provide those too and we can start the planning process. 


James


- Reese
- Smiltins
- Sturges
- Kline
- Titschinger
- Bills
- Allen
- Engel
- McCarthy
- Taylor
- Mayhugh
- Melchiors
- Steele
- Doak
- Islam
- Hillenbrand
- Fleisher
- Wolter
- Adkins
- Buck
- Groeger
- Salmen
- Solow
- Liddy
- Bodo
- Winick
- Hill
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019
Post by: George Smiltins on January 16, 2019, 04:37:00 PM
I'm in. Thanks for organizing!


George Smiltins, Cleveland, Ohio
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019
Post by: C. Sturges on January 16, 2019, 05:10:46 PM
James,


Thanks for setting this up again!  I would like to play! 


Cleveland


Thanks,
chris
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019
Post by: Steve Kline on January 16, 2019, 06:18:55 PM
I'm interested.


Steve Kline - Cincinnati, OH
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019
Post by: Criss Titschinger on January 16, 2019, 07:55:47 PM
Go ahead and put me in. Cincinnati, OH. I look forward to losing to Josh Bills for the third year in a row.
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019
Post by: Josh Bills on January 17, 2019, 09:30:14 AM
Josh Bills- Sign me up
Columbus, Ohio
You had me last year Criss!  (It was my strategy of taking a 25 minutes phone pretrial conference that turned the tide)
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019
Post by: Tom Allen on January 17, 2019, 09:48:50 AM
I'd be in again.  Tom Allen (Cincinnati/Dayton, Ohio).
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019
Post by: Brad Engel on January 17, 2019, 10:07:46 AM
I'm in! Located in Cincinnati, but willing and able to drive a few hours in any direction for a good game! Looking to get the tee ball back in shape this year so I can put up a better fight than what I showed against Criss last year!
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019
Post by: John McCarthy on January 17, 2019, 10:24:35 AM
In again.  I am in Chicago.  Jim, you would know better than anyone.  Where isis t center of gravity of each bracket ?


Warren Course is pretty central, as is Chicagoland.
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019
Post by: Ryan Taylor on January 18, 2019, 07:09:01 AM
I'm in again. Detroit Metro and Petoskey, MI. Also travel to Chicagoland area twice a month.


Ryan Taylor
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019
Post by: John Mayhugh on January 18, 2019, 07:21:09 AM
I'll give it a try this year.
John MayhughLouisville KY
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019
Post by: Joe Melchiors on January 18, 2019, 09:05:43 AM
I'm in as well.  Thanks for doing this!


Joe Melchiors
Chicago, IL
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019
Post by: Jeff Schley on January 18, 2019, 10:42:37 AM
James.... do you have an idea of when 1/2 round matches are due by?  I'm in town for July/August only this year most likely. Love to play.
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019
Post by: Billsteele on January 18, 2019, 11:37:26 AM
I will give it a try. Based out of Columbus, Ohio.
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019
Post by: Tom_Doak on January 18, 2019, 12:24:00 PM
I’m in again for an easy first round match for someone.


Suggested possible venue:  the New course at Arcadia Bluffs, for whatever part of a bracket would be willing to head north.  Or, we could play The Loop both ways around.
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019
Post by: John Kavanaugh on January 18, 2019, 12:32:03 PM
A 36 hole match against Tom Doak at the Loop playing both ways on the same day. Put this out to bid benefiting the charity that Doak names. I'll start out the bidding at $200 and host my next match, after throwing him for a loop, at Prairie Dunes.
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019
Post by: C. Sturges on January 18, 2019, 02:33:57 PM
I like Tom’s idea of playing 36 holes at the Loop!


John, are you going to be game for a Buddy Up this year?  Hope so!


chris
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019
Post by: Nigel Islam on January 18, 2019, 02:58:54 PM
I'm in again. Evansville, IN. Louisville, St. Louis, Cincy and Indy are all well within my range of travel.
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019
Post by: Ryan Hillenbrand on January 18, 2019, 03:59:42 PM
I’m in again for an easy first round match for someone.


Suggested possible venue:  the New course at Arcadia Bluffs, for whatever part of a bracket would be willing to head north.  Or, we could play The Loop both ways around.

I'd be up for that, with enough notice to plan for the travel north
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019
Post by: Josh Bills on January 18, 2019, 04:02:21 PM
I'd be in for a day at either The Loop or Arcadia.  Having seen JK play, not sure I would bet against him. 
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019
Post by: John Emerson on January 18, 2019, 06:18:54 PM
What are the boundaries of the “Midwest”?
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019
Post by: James Brown on January 18, 2019, 09:36:03 PM
Exactly.  I grew up in Oklahoma but live in Maryland.  Can I please join?  I will give lots of strokes. 
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019
Post by: John Emerson on January 18, 2019, 09:49:36 PM
I’m moving to northern Virginia in a week...can I still get in on this?  Sounds cool! 
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019
Post by: Evan Fleisher on January 19, 2019, 10:03:55 PM
If there is still room in the bracket, I'm in!


Cleveland, OH
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019
Post by: Nigel Islam on January 20, 2019, 12:52:19 AM
Exactly.  I grew up in Oklahoma but live in Maryland.  Can I please join?  I will give lots of strokes.


The Big Ten now considers Pennsylvania, Maryland and New Jersey to be part of the Midwest....
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019
Post by: JReese on January 22, 2019, 08:15:14 AM
James.... do you have an idea of when 1/2 round matches are due by?  I'm in town for July/August only this year most likely. Love to play.


The last 2 years I believe the first round matches were to be played by June 1 and 2nd round by July 1....and that maybe happened 50% of the time.  Depending on where you are playing out of or willing to drive to, I could try and arrange the bracket in a way to get 2 matches played in a day. 
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019
Post by: JReese on January 22, 2019, 08:20:27 AM
I’m in again for an easy first round match for someone.


Suggested possible venue:  the New course at Arcadia Bluffs, for whatever part of a bracket would be willing to head north.  Or, we could play The Loop both ways around.


Tom - Good idea for venues.  I would think most playing the knockout would make the journey north.  Do you have any specific dates in mind?   
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019
Post by: Buck Wolter on January 22, 2019, 09:57:43 AM
Exactly.  I grew up in Oklahoma but live in Maryland.  Can I please join?  I will give lots of strokes.


The Big Ten now considers Pennsylvania, Maryland and New Jersey to be part of the Midwest....
The Big Ten would add Florida if it meant more money

I'd do this again -- Live in Minneapolis but travel to Chicago area monthly and Traverse City area a couple times/year.

Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019
Post by: Jon Adkins on January 22, 2019, 02:19:22 PM
I’d be in again this year if space permits. I’m in Chicagoland. Thanks for organizing!
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019
Post by: JReese on February 19, 2019, 09:02:04 PM
First and final bump for anyone else interested in signing up.  I'm planning on making the bracket on or around March 1st.  If there is still interest in an outing, the pairings can be adjusted if need be....and if anyone wants to take the lead on possible venue and dates have at it!

Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019
Post by: Andrew Buck on February 19, 2019, 10:34:10 PM
I'd should be in this year.  I live just west of Chicago area.
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019
Post by: Drew Groeger on February 20, 2019, 11:29:08 AM
I'll play again, I'm in the Chicago area.
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019
Post by: Steve Salmen on February 21, 2019, 10:30:12 PM
I would like to participate if there is room. Thanks for setting it up, James.
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019
Post by: SL_Solow on February 24, 2019, 03:21:24 PM
I could fill out a bracket
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019
Post by: Tim Liddy on February 24, 2019, 03:41:06 PM
I would also like to participate if there is room and you allow old guys in. Thanks for setting it up.
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019
Post by: Mike Bodo on February 25, 2019, 05:05:50 PM
James, I would be interested in getting in if there is room. I'm in Ypsilanti, MI and have family in Harbor Springs I can stay with if required to play Up North.
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019
Post by: Brad Hill on February 26, 2019, 10:54:11 PM
I'm in...if there is room. Milwaukee, WI.
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019
Post by: John Emerson on March 01, 2019, 09:16:08 PM
I’m in.  Northern, Va is where I’m at.
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019
Post by: JReese on March 12, 2019, 01:01:05 PM
(https://i.imgur.com/BppmtxT.jpg)
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019 (Reply #38 For Bracket)
Post by: JReese on March 12, 2019, 01:19:38 PM
Sorry it took longer than expected to get the brackets completed for this years knockout.  Ideally the first round matches should be completed by the end of May, and each subsequent match by the end of the following month.  If you know you won't be able to play a match let me or your opponent know as soon as possible so the bracket can move forward.  Also, if you win a match and know you won't be able to play the next round, I'm ok with allowing the loser of the match to advance to the next round.  Any questions, comments let me know.  Good luck.
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019 (Reply #38 For Bracket)
Post by: John McCarthy on March 12, 2019, 02:23:23 PM
Can we please have a run of warm weather now and put the dang pins in?
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019 (Reply #38 For Bracket)
Post by: Tom_Doak on March 12, 2019, 10:00:19 PM
If Messrs. Hill, Walter and Taylor are agreeable, I would love to get us tee times at The Loop or Arcadia Bluffs in May, and knock out our first two rounds of matches in an overnight deal.  At Forest Dunes I can also get the rooms for cheap.
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019 (Reply #38 For Bracket)
Post by: Buck Wolter on March 13, 2019, 12:28:48 PM

If Messrs. Hill, Walter and Taylor are agreeable, I would love to get us tee times at The Loop or Arcadia Bluffs in May, and knock out our first two rounds of matches in an overnight deal.  At Forest Dunes I can also get the rooms for cheap.


I'm unavailable May 18-24 but otherwise will figure out how to make it work.



Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019 (Reply #38 For Bracket)
Post by: Brad Hill on March 13, 2019, 07:58:06 PM
If Messrs. Hill, Walter and Taylor are agreeable, I would love to get us tee times at The Loop or Arcadia Bluffs in May, and knock out our first two rounds of matches in an overnight deal.  At Forest Dunes I can also get the rooms for cheap.



Sounds great. I can make whichever dates work best for the group.
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019 (Reply #38 For Bracket)
Post by: Mike Bodo on March 14, 2019, 12:29:05 AM
I've got a favor to call in with a friend who I am hoping can get Evan and I on to the newly renovated Inverness to play our match.  ;)
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019 (Reply #38 For Bracket)
Post by: Ryan Taylor on March 14, 2019, 01:38:38 AM
If Messrs. Hill, Walter and Taylor are agreeable, I would love to get us tee times at The Loop or Arcadia Bluffs in May, and knock out our first two rounds of matches in an overnight deal.  At Forest Dunes I can also get the rooms for cheap.


Works for me. Loop would be ideal. May 3rd, May 17th or May 24th days or weekends are best for me. Thanks!
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019 (Reply #38 For Bracket)
Post by: Steve Kline on March 15, 2019, 12:13:06 PM
Tom Allen and I are going to play our match at Hyde Park Country Club (a Ross course that has had some nice restoration work done) in Cincinnati on a weekday afternoon once the weather turns a little warmer. Any other match that would like to join us is welcome.
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019 (Reply #38 For Bracket)
Post by: SL_Solow on March 15, 2019, 12:31:37 PM
If my friend Mr. Winick will send me a message, we can plan something
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019 (Reply #38 For Bracket)
Post by: Tom_Doak on March 19, 2019, 09:51:05 PM
Our little corner of the bracket have tenatively agreed to play our first two matches over The Loop at Forest Dunes on May 9-10. 


It shouldn't be busy then, but it may be cold!  If anyone else is interested in playing on those same dates, pm me here, and I can see about rooms for a larger group.
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019 (Reply #38 For Bracket)
Post by: Criss Titschinger on March 24, 2019, 12:30:10 PM
Tom Allen and I are going to play our match at Hyde Park Country Club (a Ross course that has had some nice restoration work done) in Cincinnati on a weekday afternoon once the weather turns a little warmer. Any other match that would like to join us is welcome.

Steve, Brad sent a PM. Would love to meet up with you guys if we can arrange schedules.

Of course, maybe this is the opportunity to check out Shawnee Lookout while it still exists. It'll be NLE after 2019, so time's running out on checking out this, um, interesting course. I haven't played it in a long time, and will have to make sure to get one more round in this year. Sherpas and supplemental oxygen optional.
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019 (Reply #38 For Bracket)
Post by: Steve Kline on March 25, 2019, 08:18:15 AM
Tom Allen and I are going to play our match at Hyde Park Country Club (a Ross course that has had some nice restoration work done) in Cincinnati on a weekday afternoon once the weather turns a little warmer. Any other match that would like to join us is welcome.

Steve, Brad sent a PM. Would love to meet up with you guys if we can arrange schedules.

Of course, maybe this is the opportunity to check out Shawnee Lookout while it still exists. It'll be NLE after 2019, so time's running out on checking out this, um, interesting course. I haven't played it in a long time, and will have to make sure to get one more round in this year. Sherpas and supplemental oxygen optional.


I'm not too interested in seeing Shawnee.
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019 (Reply #38 For Bracket)
Post by: Criss Titschinger on March 26, 2019, 08:40:31 PM
I'm not too interested in seeing Shawnee.


For a match, I totally agree and was just kidding. I think seeing my childhood backyard, Delhi Par 3, completely ripped up to a dirt pile is tugging at my nostalgic heart strings just a bit, no matter how bad that course is. The public golf courses on the Westside of Cincinnati are dropping like flies.
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019 (Reply #38 For Bracket)
Post by: Brad Engel on April 20, 2019, 10:13:08 AM
The weather and golf this Friday were far from good, but the course and the camaraderie certainly were! In a rematch of last year's opening round of the knockout, Criss and I battled back and forth over the first 17 holes with very few halved holes. I managed to claw my way back to all square on the back 9 and pulled it out on the 18th as the skies really opened up. Engel wins 1 up.


This was most of the group's first time out at Hyde Park and we all walked away impressed. The recent work to expand a number of greens has resulted in some of the most interesting and challenging putting surfaces in the city outside of Camargo. The internal land movement was dramatic in spots, such as the uphill approach to the par-4 4th hole and the double ravine feature on the stout par-3 12th. Tree removal over the last 10 or so years has really opened up some great long views across the course where you can now really see all of the movement. At one point our group discussed what it would have been like to play some of these dramatic features back in the early 1900's when the course was first opened, no easy feat indeed.


Huge thanks to Steve for hosting this round of matches!



Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019 (Reply #38 For Bracket)
Post by: Steve Kline on April 20, 2019, 06:22:52 PM
Tom and I played our match along side Brad and Criss.


The weather was not great and the course was very wet because of all the rain. But hats off to Pat O’Brien and team for greens that were still reasonably firm and rolled very well despite being aerated two weeks before. Without the rain slowing the greens down, the putting would have been much more difficult with all the internal movement in the greens.


I had the distinct advantage of playing my home course and playing almost 30 rounds already this year while Tom was playing his first. So I am moving on to the next round.


Tom, Brad, and Criss - thanks for coming out to Hyde Park and I was glad I could host you. And, as always, true GCAers that braved the weather.
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019 (Reply #38 For Bracket)
Post by: Tom Allen on April 29, 2019, 04:46:57 PM

Steve is being generous and humble--his advantage was not that we played on his home course: his advantage is that he is a much better golfer than I am. :)  By far.  He was fun to watch, and has a swing I am very jealous of.  Our match was a decidedly not-even-close contest (I might have lost 7 and 6, but we won't tell anyone).  I had a great time despite my play, hopefully making a few new GCA friends along the way.


I did want to congratulate Steve, and mention that I had a great time meeting everyone.  I really enjoyed my round at Hyde Park; it was in great condition, given the conditions.  ;)


Thanks very much for hosting us Steve, and great playing! Good luck, and I will be rooting for you!


Tom
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019 (Reply #38 For Bracket)
Post by: Tom_Doak on April 29, 2019, 10:08:37 PM
With apologies, I must report I won’t be able to play at Forest Dunes in round one, as it was the only time I could carve out of my schedule to travel to Africa for The Confidential Guide.  I will be playing golf in Mauritius on the appointed day! 


Congrats to Ryan Taylor on his first round bye (you can be referee for the other match) and good luck against the winner in Round 2!
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019 (Reply #38 For Bracket)
Post by: Buck Wolter on April 30, 2019, 10:58:41 PM
With apologies, I must report I won’t be able to play at Forest Dunes in round one, as it was the only time I could carve out of my schedule to travel to Africa for The Confidential Guide.  I will be playing golf in Mauritius on the appointed day! 


Congrats to Ryan Taylor on his first round bye (you can be referee for the other match) and good luck against the winner in Round 2!


We are unwinding our trip. Brad and I will play somewhere in Wisconsin and the winner will make arrangements with Ryan.
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019 (Reply #38 For Bracket)
Post by: Joe Melchiors on May 20, 2019, 01:19:34 PM
In a rematch from the last knockout, John McCarthy and I went out yesterday morning for our match at Chicago Highlands. 


The winds were up (even at 7AM) and our games were down, but I eventually got my revenge for last years' shellacking and won the battle of attrition 3 and 2.  Huge thanks to John for working with me on scheduling the match.


Thanks,
Joe
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019 (Reply #38 For Bracket)
Post by: Mike Bodo on June 02, 2019, 08:16:27 AM
I had the pleasure of playing with Evan Fleischer and host, Matt Bielawa, at the historic Inverness Club in Toledo yesterday and for 15 holes (before the hail, rain, lightning and thunder arrived) had perhaps the most enjoyable round ever on a golf course. The course itself was in immaculate shape, with the putting surfaces in pristine condition. I'm still processing mentally the holes we did complete to give the course a partial ranking, but having caddied and played on Oakland Hills South, it's right there with it if not slightly above given it's playability post-renovation. While it was windy as heck for much of the match, we managed to get around in fairly good fashion. As fate would have it, I managed to close-out my partner 5 & 4 on the last hole we were able to officially complete to move on to the next round.


Much thanks and appreciation to Matt for hosting Evan and I and thanks to Evan for being a fun and welcoming playing partner. I thoroughly enjoyed our time together and look forward to hooking up and playing some of the iconic courses no one really talks about much in the Cleveland area. Have a great (and hopefully dry) summer, gentlemen! I look forward to seeing and playing with each of you in the future.
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019 (Reply #38 For Bracket)
Post by: Nigel Islam on June 02, 2019, 10:04:11 AM
     I just realized that I neglected to post about the match between John Mayhugh and myself on May 3. We chose to play the Mike Hurdzan course built in the former site of the relocated town of English, IN. Of course playing a match on land the town abandoned for flooding in early May might not have been the best decision, but it did lead to some adventures. The path from 6 green to 7 tee runs along the Patoka River, and was blocked by a few trees. Luckily the bridge was still intact and we were walking.
    Back to the match, the course was definitely interesting. It has improved so much from when I played it in 2005. The green surfaces were undulated and  nice, and the charm of playing through the streets of a ghost town is matched only by rolling hills of Southern Indiana. I was able to play a little above my head at times, and made a couple birdies closing John out on 15. He promptly proceeded to birdie 16 of course. Islam wins the match, and I believe Ryan Hillenbrand are going to have our rematch at Norwood in St. Louis in June 11.
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019 (Reply #38 For Bracket)
Post by: SL_Solow on June 07, 2019, 09:20:16 PM
I was happy to host Jon Winick today at Briarwood.  While the golf wasn't great, the weather and the camaraderie more than made up for it. I managed to outlast Jon and advance.
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019 (Reply #38 For Bracket)
Post by: Steve Kline on June 08, 2019, 06:14:27 AM
Chris Sturges and I played our match at Springfield Country Club yesterday. It was the first time for both of us.


We were both surprised by the ample size of the property and that there was plenty of room between the tree lines to play. We were expecting it to feel much more cramped. Also, it was interesting that about half of the holes played through the edge of a hill while the other half were on virtually dead flat ground. The course has some serious false fronts on some of the greens, many greens slope hard back to front, there was a nice punch bowl green and one that was 15 or so feet above the fairway with a thumbprint in it.


Hats off to the superintendent as the course was in fantastic condition. The course was firm and fast, the greens hardly left a ball mark, and the greens were quick and true. When I hit my first shot on the driving range I knew the fairways were going to be great. The driving range had some of the best turf I had hit off in quite a while. I would love to hit balls their all the time.


While trees have been removed based on a previous course profile on GCA, more tree removal would be great. I would take out every pine tree as they are awful to play around, they block views, and, from what I've been told, a real maintenance problem. Other trees could be removed too to open up some better views across the course. The pond on 18 seemed out of place, particularly as it sat above the 18th fairway. And, it had the obligatory fountain.



The course felt like it was in no-man's land. But, I would be happy to have that course as my home course.


The golf was less inspiring than the course. We hardly halved a hole on the front as Christ took a 1 up lead. I manage to claw back and 2 up with two to play. Chris won the last two to halve the match. Since Chris did well last year, he magnanimously allowed me to move on to play the next match.


And, Chris had some interesting stories about trying to play all the public golf courses in northern Ohio. Who knew a police officer would consider a golf club a deadly weapon.
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019 (Reply #38 For Bracket)
Post by: Joe_Tucholski on June 08, 2019, 07:10:01 PM

Hats off to the superintendent as the course was in fantastic condition. The course was firm and fast, the greens hardly left a ball mark, and the greens were quick and true. When I hit my first shot on the driving range I knew the fairways were going to be great.


Great timing for conditions.  I figure sectional qualifying is a known date they try and get the course looking great for and you played days afterwards.


The course is usually in good condition but I figure it doesn't get much better than what you saw.
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019 (Reply #38 For Bracket)
Post by: Buck Wolter on June 10, 2019, 02:37:19 PM

Brad Hill and I played our match at Sand Valley yesterday on a gorgeous day. Brad's scratch travelled much better than my 10 and he's moving on.
I don't know if he's always like yesterday but I've never seen a straighter driver of the ball than Brad (pretty long too) --fun to watch.
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My first time around Sand Valley and it was exceptional. I think it looked harder than it was but I struggled to pick a line on the angled fairways and when they weren't angled it seemed like there were centerline hazards to contend with, I don't remember ever playing that many sand shots in one round. Greens looked much faster than they were, not slow but I gave them way too much respect.


As an FYI, Brad is an Arborist, we need to coax him into tree discussions on here.


Buck
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019 (Reply #38 For Bracket)
Post by: Brad Hill on June 12, 2019, 12:52:31 AM
I can't think of a better way to spend a Sunday afternoon. Buck what a pleasure.

I have mixed opinion on the architecture at Sand Valley but as a blue-collar boy, I can't think of a more enjoyable playing experience in Wisconsin. Its' the turf surface. With a normal wet, cool Wisconsin spring, SV plays like Brora in late July. Not quite but with the right wind conditions it smells the same.

In the end, I think there will be more fun had at Mammoth Dunes.

Playing the Sandbox is better than going to the range.
Please don't pass the Schlitz in any red canoe.
If you have the chance to play with Buck, play with Buck.
Under no circumstances miss the Nye's.
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019 (Reply #38 For Bracket)
Post by: JReese on June 14, 2019, 03:14:02 PM
(https://i.imgur.com/FdwXJ6v.jpg)
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019 (Reply #38 For Bracket)
Post by: JReese on June 14, 2019, 03:17:02 PM
There are still 3 first round matches that need to be played.  If you know you aren't going to be able to complete your match, let me know so we can get the bracket moving along.  If I don't hear from either player by next Friday 6/21, I will flip a coin to determine who advances. 
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019 (Reply #38 For Bracket)
Post by: Criss Titschinger on June 14, 2019, 08:30:30 PM
James, Engel won our match.
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019 (Reply #38 For Bracket)
Post by: Ryan Hillenbrand on June 15, 2019, 09:22:39 PM
In a rematch of last year, the results were the same with the good Dr. Islam dusting me, though it did go to the last hole. I’d like to blame it on coming straight from the Blues Stanley Cup parade but I was stone cold sober. We played the always fun Langford designed St. Clair CC along with his smartly named son Ryan. It was good for a son to see his dad beat up on someone. Good luck Nigel!
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019 (Reply #38 For Bracket)
Post by: Josh Bills on June 18, 2019, 09:54:50 AM
I have conceded my match to Mr. Steele. 
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019 (Reply #38 For Bracket)
Post by: Drew Groeger on June 18, 2019, 11:26:17 AM
Jon Adkins and I have had some scheduling challenges but are currently slated to play our match on Sunday at Joliet CC. Apologies for the delay.
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019 (Reply #38 For Bracket)
Post by: Jon Adkins on June 23, 2019, 09:36:16 PM
Drew Groeger and I played our match this afternoon at Joliet Golf Club (fka Joliet CC). After a torrential downpour as we finished No. 4, the sun came out and we enjoyed a good walk and good conversation. I managed to win the match 3&1.
[/size]
[/size]The course, originally laid out by Bendelow, is a mixed bag. The land is pretty solid with good movement, and there are some interesting green complexes and strategic design in place. My primary gripes are the overgrown trees, tight playing corridors, and awkward walks between greens and tees (12 to 13?!). The course also has a handful of newer holes on the back nine that clearly deviate from the feel of the originals. Drew and I agreed that there are probably 18 decent holes out there, but they’re not presented that way today.



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Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019 (Reply #38 For Bracket)
Post by: JReese on June 26, 2019, 04:18:38 PM
(https://i.imgur.com/MovhC53.jpg)
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019 (Reply #38 For Bracket)
Post by: Drew Groeger on June 26, 2019, 06:08:13 PM

Luckily my ability to converse is better than my ability to hit out of a wet bunker! As Jon said, it was a good afternoon of golf and talk. He's a fine fellow and I hope to golf with him again sometime.


The course itself is a curiosity, particularly the routing. It's been worked over several times (Tom Bendelow-1905, Nugent/Killian-1969, David Esler-2001) which accounts for that. In a nutshell (good, bad or otherwise): Crazy long walks between 2/3 and 12/13, back-to-back par 3s on the front, you make the clubhouse turn after 8, you get teleported to a completely-different-feel golf course for the 13th and 14th holes, no cart paths to speak of.


Pics of some of the more interesting holes, all original Bendelow's:
470 yd, par-5 2nd hole: Plays downhill most of the way, particularly the final third, where the green is protected by a prominent bunker on the right and (now) trees on the left.
(https://i.imgur.com/c5qkmwu.png)


A fall away green, not something you see alot of in the US, makes the approach tricky.
(https://i.imgur.com/eURxCdM.png)


400 yd, par-4 5th hole: Slight dogleg right into a deep, narrow green set at a subtle angle. Approach requires a carry over an angling creek about 35 yards short of the green.
(https://i.imgur.com/UdUJRIq.png)


350 yd, par-4 16th hole: Jon and I chatted a bit at the tee about the options presented here. The same creek from the 5th hole has meandered it's way across the property and snakes through the 16th fairway. Laying up right to an open green approach seems reasonable, but its very narrow down that side. Carrying the creek up the left doesn't require a big hit but it will leave you with a heavily guarded approach. A bomb up the left might find the bunkers, which would be a challenging up-and-down. Fun stuff.
(https://i.imgur.com/LortaTS.png)
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019 (Reply #38 For Bracket)
Post by: Brad Hill on June 28, 2019, 11:15:16 AM
Ryan and I played our match over a very wet Lost Dunes. They had the course in great shape considering some bridges were under water. I particularly enjoyed the contouring of the greens.

Thanks Ryan for setting this up and I hope we cross paths again.

I won our match 2 and 1 and will advance to the next round.
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019 (Reply #38 For Bracket)
Post by: Mike Bodo on June 30, 2019, 11:03:32 PM
I unceremoniously lost my match today with George Smiltins at Canterbury Golf Club, 9 and 8 (yep, it was that ugly). I chose the wrong time to have my worst round in two years, but the course and wind conditions played a part in that. A great club with a beautiful course and a wicked set of greens. Some of the fastest and unfriendliest I've seen - especially if you're on the wrong side of the hole. Thanks to George for accommodating myself and Evan Flescher, who I had the privilege of playing with a second time. I plan to come back when I have my A-game with me, as today was a travesty.


George, best of luck to you the rest of the way and thanks again for having me as a guest. I enjoyed it, even though I struggled to show it while in the moment. Hard to express joy when you're not playing good as I'm sure any of us can attest, but I would have been better off sleeping in today had I known I'd play that bad.  ;D
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019 (Reply #38 For Bracket)
Post by: SL_Solow on July 13, 2019, 06:08:30 PM
Congratulations to Joe Melchiors who defeated me 3 and 2 yesterday.  I was happy to host Joe at Briarwood and we had a beautiful day to explore the course which was playing beautifully.  I played to my handicap but Joe was too tough,  I look forward to playing again.
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019 (Reply #38 For Bracket)
Post by: Joe Melchiors on July 15, 2019, 09:02:29 AM
Thanks to Mr Solow for hosting me at Briarwood, which as a course and a club, is a wonderful place. 


We had a great time and in the match I got and needed every lucky break possible...  balls stopping 6 inches from out of bounds, clear looks at greens from wrong fairways, etc.  I do look forward to playing again, but have a feeling the outcome will be quite different!


Shel, it probably won't make you feel any better, the luck ran out and Mike put a hurting on me Saturday...


-Joe
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019 (Reply #38 For Bracket)
Post by: Jon Adkins on August 04, 2019, 12:31:25 PM
Andy Buck had to forfeit our match due to scheduling, so I advanced to play Joe Melchiors yesterday at Chicago Highlands.


It was a perfect morning for golf, and Joe played well, outlasting me 3 & 1. The course was a lot of fun with a strong set of Par 3s and plenty of options around the greens. Great time. Thanks Joe for having me out and good luck in the next round!
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019 (Reply #38 For Bracket)
Post by: JReese on August 04, 2019, 07:57:05 PM
(https://i.imgur.com/cj1AUxN.jpg)
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019 (Reply #38 For Bracket)
Post by: Nigel Islam on August 10, 2019, 03:59:01 PM
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Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019 (Reply #38 For Bracket)
Post by: Jeff Schley on August 13, 2019, 10:14:12 AM
Is there a date the final will be played on or a to be completed date?  I may be back this fall for a surgery to my father and if in the Midwest would like to tag along and enjoy the best sandbaggers the GCA has to offer.😉
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019 (Reply #38 For Bracket)
Post by: JReese on August 21, 2019, 03:48:41 PM
Is there a date the final will be played on or a to be completed date?  I may be back this fall for a surgery to my father and if in the Midwest would like to tag along and enjoy the best sandbaggers the GCA has to offer.😉


I will be shocked if we make it to the final match.....believe the farthest previous years have gone is the semi-finals. Hopefully we get another match or two completed.
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019 (Reply #38 For Bracket)
Post by: George Smiltins on August 29, 2019, 06:26:38 PM
Smiltins and Hill should have a result by Friday, 9/6.


Let’s do this guys!
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019 (Reply #38 For Bracket)
Post by: Nigel Islam on August 30, 2019, 02:10:18 PM
On August 9, Islam and Salmen played at the venerable Culver Academies golf course. Accompanied by John Mayhugh we enjoyed 27 holes of this Langford and Moreau masterpiece. Islam got off to a quick start, and staved off the eminent collapse by sinking a 20 foot bogey putt to halve the twelfth after losing the three preceding holes. Islam wins 3&2.


Steve was still playing when John and I left and might still be enjoying the course.....
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019 (Reply #38 For Bracket)
Post by: JReese on August 30, 2019, 02:51:36 PM
(https://i.imgur.com/jyA7wv6.jpg)
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019 (Reply #38 For Bracket)
Post by: George Smiltins on August 30, 2019, 11:47:00 PM
.
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019 (Reply #38 For Bracket)
Post by: George Smiltins on September 06, 2019, 06:33:37 PM
Brad Hill and I played our match today at Culver. I came out on top in 21 holes. Brad had a ho hum eagle on our 18th to extend the match. [/size]Just an amazing place. What a treat for those students. I was impressed with the conditioning for a sleepy weekday in September with only a few folks on the course.Cannot wait to get back and see the different pin locations.[/color]
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019 (Reply #38 For Bracket)
Post by: Jeff Schley on September 07, 2019, 03:41:46 AM
Brad Hill and I played our match today at Culver. I came out on top in 21 holes. Brad had a ho hum eagle on our 18th to extend the match. Just an amazing place. What a treat for those students. I was impressed with the conditioning for a sleepy weekday in September with only a few folks on the course.Cannot wait to get back and see the different pin locations.
Hey George, how did you guys get access?  I know quite a few families here in KSA send their students there for boarding school so they just play with their kids.
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019 (Reply #38 For Bracket)
Post by: George Smiltins on September 07, 2019, 11:25:01 AM
Hi Jeff,


Just a friendly email to the Facility Director. You’ll see on their golf page that they link to the Golf Club Atlas write-up so like minded folks.
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019 (Reply #38 For Bracket)
Post by: Brad Engel on September 10, 2019, 12:57:00 PM

This past Sunday Bill Steele and I teed it up at The Golf Club at Yankee Trace for our Knockout match. Yankee Trace previously served as host for the Dayton Open, a Nationwide Tour event, that ran from 1999 to 2003 with winners such as Guy Boros, Jason Buha, Todd Barranger, Ian Leggatt, and John Wilson. Designed by Gene Bates, the course was recognized as a Top 50 municipal golf course in the country with greens fees under $50.


For our match, we played the Hertiage and Legand nines. My preference was for the Legend side as it didn’t seem as hemmed in by housing. Where there was development, it was typically only on one side of the hole and set back from play. The best stretch of holes was 6-8 on the Legend side that meandered back through the most secluded wooded portion of the property.


Neither of us played our best golf, that said, most of the holes were still won with bogey or better. I was able to build a 3 up lead with 3 to play, but was unable to close out the match on 16 which would prove problematic as Bill stroked on the last two holes. He took advantage and won the last 3 to finish all square. Due to scheduling constraints (this young dad had to get home to help with the kiddo) we ended our riveting match the most anti-climactic way possible, with a coin flip. Bill flipped, I called, and tails never fails. Engel moves on in dramatic fashion. Great time with another GCAer!

Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019 (Reply #38 For Bracket)
Post by: JReese on September 18, 2019, 03:33:43 PM
(https://i.imgur.com/Z6l4Go8.png)
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019 (Reply #38 For Bracket)
Post by: JReese on September 25, 2019, 07:23:27 PM
Any scheduled matches on the horizon? 
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019 (Reply #38 For Bracket)
Post by: Brad Engel on September 26, 2019, 09:22:14 AM
Kline had to bow out due to scheduling constraints, so Engel and Smiltins will be squaring off tomorrow at Langford's Portage Country Club in Akron.
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019 (Reply #38 For Bracket)
Post by: George Smiltins on September 26, 2019, 10:19:48 PM
Brad won’t be able to make our 11am time tomorrow and is considering letting me proceed.


Any chance Melchiors and/or Islam can gas up the jet and head to Akron, Oh tomorrow and we put a bow on this?
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019 (Reply #38 For Bracket)
Post by: Nigel Islam on September 27, 2019, 09:10:22 AM
Brad won’t be able to make our 11am time tomorrow and is considering letting me proceed.


Any chance Melchiors and/or Islam can gas up the jet and head to Akron, Oh tomorrow and we put a bow on this?


I don't think I can make to Akron today. It's 8 hours away.
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019 (Reply #38 For Bracket)
Post by: George Smiltins on October 15, 2019, 10:07:32 PM
Nigel and I had our match today which I believe served as the Final. Beautiful fall day at Kirtland CC outside Cleveland. I came out on top 3 and 2. We both played pretty steady, but I was lucky enough to have a few more putts drop.


Thanks so much to James for organizing. Was an absolute blast getting to meet new friends from across the region, and play some great spots.


If any members of the Mashie tournament committee are reading, I’m more than happy to accept a sponsor invite for the Loop next year 😂.
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019 (Reply #38 For Bracket)
Post by: Nigel Islam on October 16, 2019, 02:44:44 AM
Thanks for setting Kirtland CC up George! Great Day. Second year in a row I've lost out in the final to a Cleveland based player better than me. I tried convincing UM alum Bielawa that I was the Fab Five of the Midwest Knockout, but he was having none of that.


George is a terrific player. I'd highly recommend the East Captain for the Mashie take him up on his offer to take his talents to the Loop!
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019 (Reply #38 For Bracket)
Post by: C. Sturges on October 16, 2019, 10:46:53 AM
Great job getting back to the finals Nigel!


Congratulations George!
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019 (Reply #38 For Bracket)
Post by: Tom Allen on October 16, 2019, 01:34:58 PM

Congratulations George!

Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019 (Reply #38 For Bracket)
Post by: Jeff Schley on October 16, 2019, 02:03:45 PM
Congrats George.
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019 (Reply #38 For Bracket)
Post by: JReese on October 16, 2019, 07:06:42 PM
Well done for getting the match in and congrats to George Smiltins as the 2019 champion.  I believe this is the first time the knockout has been played out to completion.  Let me know again if anyone has any suggestions on how to improve things for next year. 



Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019 (Reply #38 For Bracket)
Post by: Nigel Islam on October 17, 2019, 04:28:10 PM
Well done for getting the match in and congrats to George Smiltins as the 2019 champion.  I believe this is the first time the knockout has been played out to completion.  Let me know again if anyone has any suggestions on how to improve things for next year.


Chris Sturges won last year. It was played to completion.
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019 (Reply #38 For Bracket)
Post by: JReese on October 17, 2019, 10:05:33 PM
My apologies.
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019 (Reply #38 For Bracket)
Post by: Brad Hill on October 24, 2019, 06:06:53 PM
Nicely done George.

James, I appreciate you organizing this. It was a pleasure meeting Buck, Ryan and George this summer.

Please count me in for 2020.
Title: Re: Midwest USA GCA Knockout - 2019 (Reply #38 For Bracket)
Post by: John McCarthy on October 25, 2019, 04:53:03 PM
Well done, George. 


My suggestion is to have an opening day where everyone gets the ball rolling.  Maybe nearby matches all go to an agreed site so everyone can meet and plan the next match.