For the second time in three years, John Hadges, can call himself the Massachusetts Amateur Champion. And, for the second time in three years, the prototypical 49-year old Baby Boomer beat a talented 28-year old Generation X up-and-comer, Dan Head, in the final match of the most prestigious amateur event on the golf calendar.
The final match on July 16 at the 102nd Mass Amateur at steamy Myopia Hunt Club, which has hosted four U.S. Open Championships since its opening back in 1894, once- again pitted age vs. youth, successful veteran vs. rookie and skilled shotmaker vs. raw talent. In the end, experience won out as Hadges (Thorny Lea GC) defeated Head (Wellesley CC), 2 and 1, in 35 holes.
“When we first started the match I thought I had the advantage,” said a tired Hadges after his historic victory. “But I quickly realized after starting off that even though I had never heard of Dan, I had my hands full. He is a great guy and very good player. After witnessing his game, I know that Dan will be back here again.”
Over the course of five days of the most competitive amateur golf in these parts, the two weary warriors logged a total of 282 holes of golf. The nearly nine-hour, 36-hole final match was a perfect end to an exciting week as it was a battle that saw 11 lead changes and no player ever gain more than a two-hole advantage from start to finish. The drama, emotion, excitement and pure joy of watching two talented amateurs tangle on this stage are always cherished memories and storylines. To the victor goes the glory, but the unflappable Dan Head had a storybook week and happy ending.
“I am perfectly happy with second place,” said the classy Head, who had a large following from Wellesley CC routing for every good shot. “This is my first time in Match Play so the whole week has been surreal. Every single match I played was a bonus. To make to the finals and go deep with John Hadges is an added bonus.”
John Hadges becomes only the 19th player to claim two Massachusetts Cup titles since its debut in 1904. He also became the fifth Thorny Lea GC member to win the prestigious title joining Ed Connell (1965), John Tosca (1959,’70), Bruce Douglas (1975,’76) and Steve Tasho (1981, ‘85).
Wed, Jul 21, 2010
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