Eric Seider started the final round of the Penticton Golf and Country Club’s (PG&CC) 2014 Jackson Triggs men’s open Saturday trailing by three shots.
When it was over, he was crowned champ by that same number.
“It was very close, right up to the last couple of holes,” said Seider, of Victoria’s Bear Mountain Golf and Country Club, who carded a 213.
Seider trimmed a three shot lead to one with nine holes remaining. He said that was good considering the windy conditions and firm greens.
Seider hasn’t played much this season so he took a conservative and patient approach, which he said worked.
“I was able to post three consistent rounds,” said Seider, who shot 71 each day, while runner-up Brooks Lancaster of Penticton carded a 216. “Although it was not my best golf, I was able to lean on my short game.
“It was very satisfying to get the win,” Seider continued. “I just stayed focused on making pars and didn’t get discouraged with the bogeys. It was also nice to be able to play a good final nine holes in front of the crowd that came out to watch, including some friends and family.”
Seider, general manager of Golf Town Victoria, enjoyed the social aspect of the tournament, adding it was well organized and one of the best events he has played in. He entered the championship after being encouraged by a friend who played in it several times. His wife’s family also lives in Penticton.
“My wife and I decided it would be a good little get-away, I play in the golf tournament and she can visit with family,” he said. “A win-win situation.”
The overall low net winner was Penticton’s Joey Kozakevich, who carded a 204.
Guy Dow, Canadian Professional Golfers Association at PG&CC, said the 56th men’s open was a great success. Several visiting players were happy with it despite the hot weather. Dow received many positive comments on the quality of the course and the tournament, adding that players liked that it was three days long, making for a good holiday golf trip.
Other results from the championship:
Flight Winners: 0-6 Handicap 1st Low Gross – John Audia 2nd Low Gross – Ryan Eden 1st low Net – Rick Gartel 2nd Low Net – Joe Zerdin
7-11 Handicap 1st Low Gross – Andy Maclean 2nd Low Gross – Jason Hurlburt 1st Low Net – Carey Swanson 2nd Low Net – Phillip Fassbender
12-17 Handicap 1st Low Gross- Bob Holiday 2nd Low Gross- Ben Wendland 1st Low Net – Scott Reid 2nd Low Net – Ron Hosner
18 + Handicap 1st Low Gross – Gerald Bennett 2nd Low Gross – Terry Macdermott 1st Low Net – Neil Cook 2nd Low Net – John Hall