Simmerman Goes Wire-to-Wire in South Mid-Amateur
Mont Belvieu – Danny Simmerman went wire-to-wire to claim the 2016 South Mid-Amateur Championship at Eagle Pointe Golf Club in Mont Belvieu. With a 54-hole total of 214, and a final round score of 2-over par 73, Simmerman held on to win by two strokes over John Hunter.
Simmerman, of Shavano Park, started his round with a one stroke lead over Hunter. Simmerman gave that stroke right back to Hunter after an opening final round bogey on the par five first hole. He carded two birdies and two more bogeys on his way to an opening nine 1-over par 37. Simmerman and Hunter both made the turn at even par for the championship.
Hunter, of Houston, battled the 36-hole leader during their last nine holes. The two were tied as they headed to the par five 17th hole. Simmerman left the door open for Hunter after a bogey six. With a one stroke lead heading into the last, Hunter couldn’t capitalize and he made a double bogey six on his final hole. Simmerman closed out the championship with a birdie on the final hole.
Simmerman thought that his key to victory to his putting throughout the week. “I haven’t been able to practice very much outside of my putting. I worked on my putting leading up to this weekend’s event.”
Simmerman grew up in Florida and was used to playing in windy conditions. For most of the day on Saturday and Sunday the wind shifted and came from the north as a cool front passed through. “When I found out that it was going to be windy after the first round I was happy that I was out ahead of the field. I loved the last couple days; it was right up my alley.”
Simmerman was also crowned as the Super Mid-Amateur Champion. The award is presented to the individual with the low 54-hole total that is 40+ years of age.
The Texas Golf Association extends their appreciation to the membership and staff of Eagle Pointe Golf Club for their gracious efforts in hosting this year’s championship.
For final results and additional information, please click here.