Written by Isaac Staszkow, Championships Intern
After day one, Jerome Country Club proved an adequate challenge for the state’s best senior men and women.
Swirling winds, muggy heat and small greens created a serious test for a field filled with seven senior women and 57 senior men—allowing only two competitors to shoot under par.
JCC reminded us all that consistency will win out in a war of attrition.
Senior Men’s Divison
2021 Champion Scott Vermeer continued his success in the event by shooting a four under par 68 on the day to lead the Senior Men’s Division.
His day one push was led by six birdies, four of which came on the back nine.
This performance would have been reason for a celebration for most but not for Scott Vermeer.
Following his bogey on the 18th, he stated, “That hole will haunt me,” as he headed to the practice green to roll some more putts.
Super-Senior Men’s Division
Mike Rawls has taken the lead in the Super-Senior Men’s Division after round one—reminding us all that par is your best friend.
While others bounced back and forth from birdie to bogey, Rawls stayed calm and parred on as he carded a total of 16 for the day. It was that consistent effort that has given him the two-shot lead on his closest contender.
Senior Women’s Division
After round one, the line between leader and challengers remained blurred as the top of the leaderboard filled up with well-known names full of rich herstories.
Kris Fenwick has once again found herself with another opportunity to break through that figurative glass ceiling with a victory this week after having finished as the runner-up at the IGA Match Play earlier this year.
Tied for second at four over par are two more familiar faces: Karen Darrington (six-time winner of this event) and Stacey Camara. Both have proven they have more than enough firepower to make a run at the top on day two.
Potentially the most intreating story of the tournament is Shawna Ianson.
Finishing day one with a five over par 77, Ianson has found herself in contention despite the fact that she would typically play this event as a Super-Senior Woman.
For a complete look at the leaderboard, click here.