The Society of Seniors opened its 2023 season by returning to the Abacoa Golf Club, Jupiter, FL for the Spring Classic Week One. Forty-Nine players aged 55-64 competed in the senior division including 2023 US Senior Amateur Champion Rusty Strawn, McDonough GA. Also in the field were Allen Peake, Macon, GA, coming off a spectacular 2022 that included 2 wins and 2 seconds, Todd Hendley, Columbus, NC winner of the 2022 SOS Jack Hesler and the 2021 North South Senior, and four-time SOS Champion Steve Hudson, Birmingham, AL.

The Abacoa Golf Club has acted as host to the SOS Spring Classic three times. Abacoa is nothing short of beautiful, nestled in the heart of Jupiter, Florida. Built 23 years ago, the club has climbed to prominence in the local golf scene and has become a perennial favorite with young aspiring tour players. A recent renovation of greens and bunkers highlighted the return for the SOS. Owner and SOS member Robbie Dew and staff provide all visitors with first class hospitality.

But it was new member Doug Clapp, Manomet, MA making a bold statement in his first SOS event posting rounds of 69-71-75. His opening 69 tied for low round for the senior division. Clapp has played 19 USGA Championships, 3 British Amateurs, and 1 British Senior Am (all after the age of 30). Clapp was the Massachusetts Golf Association Player of the Year in 2013.

Clapp’s 215 total was good for a one-shot victory over Hendley who posted rounds of 73-72-71 to finish alone at 216. Tied in third position were Jon Lindstrom, Broomfield, CO, and Steve McPherson both at 217. Strawn was next at 218 followed by John Barry, Bradenton, FL, and Hudson knotted at 219.

In the super senior division, Stephen Fox, Pinehust, NC notched his fourth SOS victory with a one-over par 217. Fox’s rounds included back-to-back subpar openers, 71-70 and 76 to finish. Fox triple bogied the 54th hole to sneak by hard charging Robbie Dew, Palm Beach Gardens, FL. Dew’s rounds of 69-71-76 was good for solo second. Jim McNelis, Gig Harbor, WA winner of the 2022 SOS Founders Cup and the 2022 Washington State Super Senior Am Champion was next at 219. Jim’s first round 69 was tied for low round of the super seniors event.