Golfers enjoy Ryder Cup-style weekend at Midway

by nathan osterIt wasn’t the same three-man, two-man best ball format that has been used in the past, but this year’s Midway Open didn’t disappoint, providing golfers with two days of fun, spirited competition.Sixteen golfers participated.A Ryder Cup-style format was used, with four-ball and alternate shot Saturday and a two-man scramble and individual head-to-head play wrapping up the tournament on Sunday.Team 1 consisted of Mike Longshore, Lonnie Koch, Carl Olson, Aubrey Owen, Travis Tigner, Frank Kelly, Jim Ryles and Eddie Johnson.Team 2 constisted of Michael McColloch, Bob Fink, Mike Larchick, Chuck Hopkin, Eddie Craft, Scott McColloch, Ryan Lipp and Ross Henderson.The competition was decided in the individual head-to-head round on Sunday.Team 1 was up by one point going into the championship.But Team 2 erased that deficit and eventually won by a single point.“While we were disappointed that the three-man, two-man best ball tournament did not happen, the Ryder Cup format provided a lot of competition for all those involved,” said Eddie Johnson, a member of the club. “The teams were competitive and the golfing was a lot of fun.”Frank Kelly and Carl Olson were the top point scorers for Team 1.Team 2 was led by Bob Fink and Chuck Hopkin.Lisa’s and O’Reilly Auto Parts provided the prizes.Sponsors made the tournament — and the course in general — possible.“That support makes our golf course unique and also a special place to play,” said Johnson.Several events remain on this year’s golf schedule at Midway.A Friday night fun event is planned for Aug. 22.“If you have never played in one before, it’s a lot of fun,” said Johnson.The Club Championship is planned for Sept. 13-14, again using the Ryder Cup format.“Get signed up for these and enjoy the fall time of golf that is available to everyone,” said Johnson.