The Spring Championship marks the beginning of the mid-amateur golf season in Austin. The annual event, formerly known as the Spring Mid-Amateur Championship, is held at Morris Williams Golf Course in late March. As a result, weather can be a big factor in the event.
Last year, the course was recovering from a restoration project, increased play and a harsh winter that had the course closed about 10 days for various freezes and cold weather. As a result, the greens were in poor condition. In addition, as the tournament took place, a cold front moved in with gusty winds and cold temperatures that resulted in brutal scoring conditions. The low round of the day on Sunday was 76.
This year, the course has had time to recover and it is in good condition in general. The greens have a nice cover of winter rye grass and are rolling well. They are quite firm and will play somewhat fast during the tournament. They are scheduled to be treated soon after the tournament.
2014 Champ Brian Noonan with Beth Cleckler
About ninety players are registered to play in the event, including the defending champion Brian Noonan. Noonan will have to play well to defend his title as most of the top amateurs in the area are entered in the tournament.
Steve Paterson
Steve Paterson, who won the Austin Amateur Golf points race in 2014 will be in the field along with Jay Reynolds, who won the TGA South Region Mid-Amateur Championship last week with a closing round 65.
Jay Reynolds – 2015 TGA South Region Mid Am Champ
This marks Reynolds first amateur win since regaining his amateur status and playing most of last year as an amateur. He contended in numerous tournaments prior to this year’s win.
See the list of players and follow the scoring at the GolfAustin.Org website or download the free I-Phone or Android GolfAustin app and use your mobile device to keep up with the action.
