SOUTH BURLINGTON, Vt.- It was a historic day for the Vermont Chapter as David Bennett won his record setting sixth Stroke Play Championship by firing a 2-under par 70 at Vermont National Country Club to finish with a two-day total of 3-under 140.
By winning his sixth Bob Lendzion Trophy, Bennett broke the long-standing record which was held by the man for whom the trophy was named. Lendzion had a dominant run during the late 80’s and early 90’s where he won five titles in seven years while he was the Head Professional at The Quechee Club.
Bennett’s dominant play at the Stroke Play Championship has now lasted well over a decade, with his previous titles coming in 2006, 2008, 2016, 2017, and 2020. However, this year’s title did not come without some adversity.
Entering the final round, Bennett held a 4-shot lead over Zac Temple (The Quechee Club) and Todd Trono (Williston Golf Club). After playing the first four holes at even-par, Temple made back-to-back bridies on holes 5 and 6 to narrow the lead to one shot.
Feeling the field closing in on him, Bennett made three consecutive birdies on holes 9, 10 and 11 to separate himself from the pack. Standing on the 18th tee, he held a sizeable lead and was able to play the last hole with victory in hand. After lagging his putt to two feet on 18, Bennett tapped in for the victory where he was greeted by his family and fellow VTPGA Professionals.
Finishing in second place was Burlington Country Club’s David Jankowski with a two-day total of 148. Jankowski had an impressive round at Vermont National, firing a 3-under 33 on the back 9. In a three-way tie for third place was Alex Watson (Ekwanok Country Club), Zac Temple, and Peter Weatherby (Manchester Country Club).
In the Senior Championship division there was a two-way tie for first between Kwiniaska Golf Club’s John Paul and Brattleboro Country Club’s Michael Zaranek.
Thank you to Vermont National Country Club’s Head Professional Brian Gara, Assistant Golf Professional Sean Toof, and Golf Course Superintendent Nate Dyer for being fantastic hosts. The Chapter would also like to thank our sponsors for the Stroke Play Championship, Avidia Bank, Farrell Distributing and Michelob Ultra, Dealer.com, Northstar Fireworks, Jim Mayo brands, Tournament Solutions, and the PGA Tour!
