Bishop and Oh share the Mid Am lead at two-under
Past Champion, Laubman, sits one shot back of the lead.
GRANDE PRAIRIE, Alta. – There was plenty of sunshine and blue skies during the first day of competition for the 2017 Alberta Mens Mid Amateur Championship at the Grande Prairie Golf & Country Club. With just six players at even par or better, the small greens and tree-lined fairways have proven to be a demanding test for this year’s mid amateurs.
Graeme Bishop and Grant Oh posted the low rounds of day one with a 2-under (70). “I putted really well,” Bishop said. “You could make a lot of putts today if you were on the right side of the hole.” Meanwhile, Oh relied on getting up and down around the greens, saying, “this course is all about chipping. You have to leave yourself four or five-foot par putts.”
Ryan DenBraber and Brian Laubman were the only other two players under par, shoot 1-under (71). DenBraber put up four birdies, on route to going 2-under on the par 3’s today. Laubman finished red hot, going 5-under in his last six holes to sit one shot off the lead.
It was long drive north for some of the field, with some players only arriving late Sunday evening. If the weather cooperates, look for more players to shoot under par as they become more familiar with the course. Although, with ~25mm of rain expected over the next two days, players may be forced to grind through tough conditions to post low scores.
With the field being cut to top 60 and ties after tomorrow’s second round, the players will be fighting for an opportunity to play the final round on Wednesday.
MEDIA
-30-
ABOUT ALBERTA GOLF
Alberta Golf hosts 13 annual provincial championships in order to identify the best golfers in various age and gender catergories. A mix of nearly 1,500 pro and amateur golfers compete on high quality member facility courses across the province. Championships are hosted by a core team of staff and over 100 volunteers. The tournaments promote competition, build pride in the community, support charitable giving and inspire future generations of golfers. They also serve as an opportunity for golfers to qualify for national amateur championships.
The Alberta Golf Association was incorporated as a society in 1912 and continues today as a not for profit Provincial Sport Organization (PSO) operating as Alberta Golf. As the PSO, we are commited to realizing the positive impacts of golf on individuals and communities across Alberta. Our vision is that through golf, Albertans will enjoy a high quality of life, improved health and wellness, a strong sense of community, economic benefits and personal fulfillment.
MORE INFORMATION
Stephen Wigington
Tournament Director
Alberta Golf
(p) 403-860-7425
