2005 GGO Recap

Pleasantly warm sun and cool lake breezes were the highlights of what was possibly the most comfortable weather in the history of the Greg Gross Open. Nine golfers in two groups teed off last Saturday morning at Peter N. Jans Golf Course, a longtime home of the GGO.

In a tournament that has seen exciting play through the years, this year’s GGO featured a furious back nine comeback from a player in the lead group, so furious that it was not discovered until the Awards Ceremony that there was a tie. As you are aware, when golfers tie after eighteen, playoff holes are played. If the playoff holes end in a tie, the golfers in the playoff are disqualified for wasting time.

So, as Bob Lumicao stormed through the back nine in the group of five duffers, and Scott Gillman held off the lead group and to an assumed outright victory, golfers gathered at the UBAA Tap and ordered Collossal burgers. Once the cards were tabulated, however, it was found that Lumicao and Gillman had tied, thus forcing a three hole playoff on the corner Golden Tee. After the golfers tied the first two holes, Stan Kitzinger, defending champion, began rubbing his hands as he knew, as 3rd place finisher, the crown would fall back into his hands with another tied hole.Gillman then took control on the third playoff hole, and the crown was his.

There were no rookies this year, but Lumicao did win the AGA title, besting the Tournament Director, who did birdie the lengthy par 3 8th hole.

1st Scott Gillman
2nd Bob Lumicao
3rd Stan Kitzinger
4th Jim Rose
5th Frank Murtha
6th Craig Lederer
7th Greg Kelly
8th Kevin Kelly
9th James Slater

James Slater, who now lives closest to PNJGC since his recent move to Wilmette, wore the Pink Visor with pride, taking it off only after asking “Do I still need to be wearing this?” It was a victory indeed for Slater, who anticipated not finishing ther GGO after coming to the course without balls or clubs. He did buy $.50 slightly experienced balls and left the course with some to spare.

It was agreed that the GGO would rotate between Peter N. Jans Golf Course in Evanston and Anets Golf Course, which is currently being renovated by the Northbrook Park District.

We thank everyone who stayed for attending, and hope you mark your calendar for

July 29, 2006*
*tentative