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By Ron P. Coderre
The 24th Northeastern Connecticut Chamber of Commerce Golf Invitational dodged a bullet as the full field of golfers was spared the heavy rains that passed through last week. The teams were prepared to tee off at 11 a.m. at Quinnatisset Country Club in Thompson as heavy rains pelted the area but miraculously the skies cleared just in time allowing the tournament to move forward as planned.
“We were sweating the weather but fortunately everything worked out to our advantage. Thankfully all the golfers showed up and were prepared to go despite the early down pour. It turned out to be a great day for the Chamber,” said Chairman, Donald St. Onge.
On the course the damp conditions and slightly soggy grounds didn’t appear to hamper the golfers. The conditions certainly didn’t seem to bother the team from the Wireless Zone as they finished on top by a comfortable four-stroke margin. The winning foursome composed of Chris Krushefsky, Joe Salan, Rich Denesha and John Darigan posted a stunning 17-under par 55 on the par 72 Quinny layout. “We remained cool and dry and took the day one shot at a time” said John Darigan. Second place was a fierce battle with two teams finishing at 59. By virtue of matching cards the foursome of Trevor Cardinal, Jeremy Hendrickson, Logan Mullen and Andre Lavoie representing Baker’s Dozen edged out the show team of Steve Townsend, George and Ted Tsanjoures and Paul Archer from Northeast Development.
In the closest to the pin contests, Dr. Scott Green was the winner on the third hole, while Townsend won on the seventh, Hendrickson on the 13th and Ted Tsanjoures was closest on the 15th. The longest drives of the day came off the clubs of Gina Barrows for the women and Matt Smith for the men. “Once again we enjoyed another successful tournament. I’m so appreciative of all the sponsors and golfers who turn out each year in support of the event,” said Executive Director Betti Kuszaj. The tournament raised more than $20,000 for the Chamber according to Chairman St. Onge. Working with the chairman on the organizing committee were Jeff Bousquet, David Conrad, Matt Desaulnier, Peter Deary, Bob Fournier, Don King and Doug Valentine.