Monday’s 25th Annual Jet Open golf tournament has been deemed a "huge success" by Newman Athletic Director Vic Trilli. A record-shattering turnout of 164 golfers took to the course at Rolling Hills Country Club in support of Newman Student-Athletes.
"The Jet Open was a huge success, without a doubt," Trilli said. "It was the largest Jet Open ever, and it was very exciting to see that kind of support for Newman athletics."
The Jet Open took on a new look during the annual awards banquet when Trilli, Jet Open chairman Steve Harshberger and Newman President Dr. Noreen Carrocci announced that the tournament had been re-named the Laurie Bell Memorial Jet Open Charity Golf Tournament, in honor of Jet Open founder and long-time supporter Laurie Bell. Bell’s family was on hand for the tournament and the ceremony.
The tournament was originally scheduled to be played in late April, but heavy rains flooded the course and forced the postponement of the event.
"I didn’t know what to expect when we had to postpone it," Trilli said. "In the long run it may have been the best thing that could happen to us since we had such a big turnout this time."
Rain threatened Monday’s tournament yet again, forcing a brief rain delay in the start time, but nearly perfect weather and course conditions prevailed once the tournament began. In the end, the foursome of Mike Suellentrop, Frank Suellentrop, Paul Simon and Joe Eckberg won the top prize in the tournament. By posting a score of 16-under par, each player was awarded a 19 inch flat screen television.
"I couldn’t be more thrilled with the turnout," Trilli said. "This truly was a great day for Newman athletics!"
Plans are being made for the 2010 Jet Open. Details will be posted as they become available.
Tournament Results
First Flight
1. Mike Suellentrop, Frank Suellentrop, Paul Simon, Joe Eckberg
2. Brad Clothier, Bruce Witt, Marlon Dauner, Todd Kasitz
Second Flight
1. Martin Park, Kristian Strom, Heather Park, Brandon Paulseen
2. Jay Erwin, Reggie Graham, Peter Berlo, Ralph Compton
Third Flight
1. Chris Allison, Tony Adame, Casey Walkup, Ryan Johnson
2. Mark Bell, Mike Bell, Brad Stephen, Greg Vance
Skill Contests
Longest Putt (#1): Bob Howse
Closest to Hole (#17): Nate Steven
Men’s Longest Drive (#18): Adam Phillips
Women’s Longest Drive (#18): Tracy Anderson