By Ron P. Coderre

The golf Gods prevailed on the Northeastern Connecticut Chamber of Commerce as the group teed off its 26th Golf Invitational at Quinnatisset Country Club on Wednesday, June 11.  Although the skies were overcast with a few breakthroughs of sunshine, the temperatures were ideal for the field of 36 foursomes that participated.

On the finely manicured grounds of Quinny the foursome of Mike Gaudreau, Eddie Berthiaume and Earl and Cody Semmelrock took advantage of the ideal conditions and walked away with the top prize.  The winners fired a torrid 14 under par 58 over the 18-hole layout, winning on matching cards.  They bested second-place finishers Brandon Meehan and Jared Meehan, Ryan Salvas and Ryan Moires, who also carded a 58.

Third place went to the J.D. Cooper’s team of David Landry, Peter LeClair, Doug Valentine and Matt Smith with a score of 59.  “Always a bridesmaid, never a bride” was Valentine’s comment after finishing one stroke off the pace.  The Byrnes Insurance foursome of Archie Drobiak, Rob Roveto, Greg Kosman and Jeff Clang finished in the California Chrome, fourth spot with a score of 60.

“Although the golfers participate in support of the Chamber and for an enjoyable round of golf, it’s always great to have competition for the top prize,” said Chamber Executive Director Betti Kuszaj. 

The closest-to-the-pin winners were Roveto on the 7th hole with a shot 4’3” from the pin.  Earl Semmelrock was the winner on #13 at 5’3” and Joe Salan was closest on #15 at 7’1”.  Gina Barrows was the women’s long drive champion, while her male counterpart was Cody Semmelrock.  The teams sponsored by New England Plasma, Frito Lay and The Savings Institute shared the skins pot.

“I’m really pleased with the turnout of golfers,” said tournament chairman Matt Desaulnier.  “I’d also like to thank our many sponsors.  Without them our tournament and those we support would not be the success that it is.  We’re already looking forward to next season.”

The tournament netted approximately $15,000.  The proceeds support the Northeastern Connecticut Chamber of Commerce scholarship at Quinebaug Valley Community College and a variety of non-profit endeavors.

 

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