by Danny Carpenter
SPORTS WRITER
(June 17)
LAKE FLOYD -- The Lake Floyd Open isn't a high profile event, but the annual golf tournament continues to be popular as it enters its 35th year of play this weekend.The two-day, 36-hole tournament has attracted dozens, according to club President Carl Clifton.
"We've had as many as 88 golfers here for the open, but (the numbers) have been down the last couple of the years because people (from out of state) haven't been able to come in like before," Clifton said.
"And we never know the numbers until the day the event starts. A lot of guys just show up on Friday or Saturday."
The event remains a favorite of local golfers who depend on public courses to satisfy their golfing appetites. It's perfect for weekend duffers who still feel the urge to compete.
Golfers will find the nine-hole course challenging because of its tight fairways and fast greens. But the recent wet weather should help the green speeds and the course is short, measuring just 4,085 yards.
Because of the length, par is just 62. There are four par 4s and five par 3s.
"The pin placements this year will be a little more moderate," Clifton said. "And that should make everyone happy. The placements last year were just brutal.
"And it will play easier because they can (shoot) for the pin," Clifton said. "Last year the greens were really fast, and the rain will slow them down."
Club member Dave Tanner returns to defend his title, while other club members -- Shannon Cottrill, Aaron Helmick, Kenny Geissler and Jeff Ritter -- are good bets to compete for low medalist.
Practice rounds will be held Friday. The tournament starts early Saturday morning, and concludes Sunday afternoon with flighted groups.
The entry fee is $35 for members and $40 for non-members. For more information, contact the clubhouse at 782-1577.
UPCOMING: The West Virginia Junior Classic will be held July 6 at the Pete Dye Golf Club. The event is a fund-raiser for the West Virginia Golf Association's Scholarship Fund. Entry fee is $250. Contact the golf association's office at 757-3444 for more information.
-- Bel Meadow Country Club will hold a junior tennis/golf camp from Monday, July, 20 through Friday, July, 24. Entry fee is $70 and checks can be made payable to the Country Club. Entry deadline is July 15.
-- Bel Meadow offers an extensive golf clinic program for men, women and youth. Contact the course at 623-3701 for more details.