The 2016 Society of Seniors inaugural Founders Cup was completed in Orlando moments before hurricane Matthew roared into town.
The Grand Cypress Golf Resort provided a splendid setting for three days of tournament action. Two rounds were played on the exciting New course, a semi-replica of St. Andrews. The final round was played on the North and South nines.
In the senior division, Jim Starnes of Ft. Myers found the New course to his liking, posting an opening 2-under par 70. Vance Antoniou, North Barrington, IL was also under par after the first round with a 71.
Starnes was able to card 70 in the second round, but the round of the day belonged to Doug Hanzel, Savannah, with a four-under 68. Hanzel and Starnes headed to the final round deadlocked at 140. Alone in third after two rounds as Tim Sacheck, Palm Beach Gardens at 143.
Turning to the North South nines for the final, Hanzel and Starnes traded blows in the final grouping. After the dust settled, it was an even par round by Starnes that secured the victory (70-70-72-212). Hanzel was steady through the day but could only manage a two over 74 for the day. His 214 was good for runner up. Steady Mark Weston, Windermere, Florida fired rounds of 75-72-73 for a 220 total and third place.
In the Super Seniors division, 2015 Player Of The Year Gary Kirwan, McKinney, Texas, was the only player to break par in the opening round with a 70. Wyatt Meyer, Lutz, Florida, carded a fine 71 opener for lone possession of second place.
Kirwan’s second round 75 was topped by Robert Hess, Casselberry, Florida’s tournament-low five under par 67. Hess grabbed the lead going to the final 18. Alone in third after two rounds was Brecksville, Ohio’s Jeff Knox at 143 (72-71).
Hess was steadfast in his resolve in the final round, playing with Kirwan. Both players navigated the North South nines in 74 strokes, giving Hess a six shot victory over Kirwan.
In the Grand Masters division, Jim Wetzel, Edmond. Oklahoma fired rounds of 76-75-75 for a 226 total, good for a six shot victory over Harry Cain, Boynton Beach, Fl.
