42nd Annual Theta Chi Open Wrap-Up
42nd Annual Theta Chi Open - Left to right: Hornyak, Hunter, Matthews, Mooney, Cunningham, Schlegel, Losinger, Mankus, Dalesio, Raymond, Wszalek, McTague, Mausser, Howe, Perkins, Kivitz, Rooney, and Fleuhr - Courtesy Bob Mooney
16 Elders, some fueled by Rick's Breakfast House in Sea Isle City, traversed the rolling fairways, many trees, water and very slow greens of Avalon Golf course. Nothing like a pre round hunk of scrapple to fuel a round of golf. A total of 22 Theta Chi's were present at the post round banquet and some attended the traditional first tee festivities.
Low gross was won once again by Bob Mausser with a low gross of 81. He is a tough one to beat. However Brother Matthews is nipping at his heals, shooting an 85. Other sub 90 scores were recorded by the recently retired Bob Mooney (89) and the rejuvenated by the "Villages" Matt Mankus (89). Congratulations Brothers' Mausser, Matthews, Mooney and Mankus. You have earned your way into the 43rd annual Theta Chi Open 1st group.
A new contest was introduced for low net score. This was won by Dave Matthews with a net 69. Well done Chief. Tied for 2nd was Bob Mausser, Bob Mooney, and Matt Mankus with net 73's.
Sharpshooters hit all 3 closest to the pin greens. Dave Matthews won closest to the pin on #15, Bob Losinger on #11 and Tom Raymond on #3.
Longest drive was won by Bob Mausser. A reported 270 yard beauty.
Another tradition was revived by the playing of the Tachi Cup. Five "old" guys versus five "young" guys (total low gross) to win and drink from the Tachi Cup. Unbelievably the total gross scores of both teams ended up in a dead heat tie. Neither team was hindered though by not being able to drink from the "Cup". Some carried on until 4 in the morning. Oooh that hurt the next day.
Brother Jeffery Lynn Sleigh participated in the entire three day celebration for the first time. It was his 1st appearance in 15 years. We almost lost him at the Borgata casino when he decided to take a tour of the floor with no ability to contact us. Fortunately he had the common sense to find us in the sports betting parlor and lounge. He has committed to attending next year's event. Brothers Beidel, Loyle and Kistler this is your second opportunity to visit the Sledge man.
Welcome back Bob Losinger from the DL. Everybody up, nobody sleeps and stay healthy.
Lastly thanks to Bill Rooney, John Wszalek for collecting banquet and golf challenge money. Dave Matthews for calculating net handicaps, Tom Raymond for providing a place to stay for the "old" brothers at his Avalon shore house and Paul Cunningham for finding and reserving the "young guys" shore house (not a fun job).
Looking ahead, next year's 43rd Annual Theta Chi Open will be held on Friday May 3rd. Yes the Derby will be held the next day May 4th. No Mother's Day is not an issue as it is scheduled for Sunday May 12th. Hoping those of you on the cc list of this message can find a way to attend. Its just 378 days away.
For the good!
Mike Perkins