Today was the first round of the Minnesota Golf Champions tournament at Minneapolis Golf Club in St. Louis Park. Considered the year’s first Minnesota major, this tournament has a stellar field of Minnesota’s best professional and amateur players.
Reigning champion John Harris did not return to defend the title he won last year at Bearpath, so the 2009 crown is up for grabs. Two-time champion Clayton Rask of Monticello Country Club (above, right) shot a 4-under par 68 to take a one-shot first round lead over reigning Tapemark champion John Carlson of Wayzata Country Club.
Insurance broker Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. is the new title sponsor of the event (former sponsor Stanton Group is now a division of Gallagher). GPS devices were also provided by OnPar and were allowed for championship play by the Minnesota Section PGA.
We saw a few old friends today:
- Don Berry said he’s playing bad and getting pretty used to playing bad (Don shot an even par 72 and is tied for tenth).
- Asked if he is ready for a three-peat at the Tapemark, John Carlson replied: “I sure hope so!”
- 2008 Minnesota Section PGA Player of the Year Jeff Sorenson must have had his brother caddying for him; they were dead ringers for each other.
- Minnesota Gophers Director of Golf Brad James was spotted walking the course and checking up on his many players in the tournament.
- Mendakota professional Dale Jones was paired with Tom Lehman’s brother, James, who shot a 6-over 78.
Tomorrow’s second round starts at noon and spectators are welcome. Don’t miss this free opportunity to see some of the best golf of the year.
