PLYMOUTH, MA — The Cape Cod Chapter officially launched its 2026 season on April 23rd at Pinehills Golf Club on the challenging Jones Course. Competitors faced a true early-season test, navigating a day that was bright and sunny but characterized by cold temperatures and persistent winds.
In the individual professional competition, Frank Leja of the Club at New Seabury navigated the difficult conditions with a steady hand to claim the first title of the year. Leja’s round of 1-over par 73 was defined by remarkable consistency; he carded thirteen pars to go along with two birdies and three bogeys. With this victory, Leja has jumped out to an early lead in the 2026 Dutch Wessner Player of the Year race.
While Leja took the top spot, the round of the day featured significant fireworks from Tom Rooney of LeBaron Hills Country Club. Rooney recorded a field-high three birdies and capped off his day in spectacular fashion by carding an eagle on the par-5 18th hole. His late-round heroics helped propel his group into a tie for second place in the team competition. Other notable professional performances included Bob Miller of Cranberry Valley and Zack Sweet of Cape Cod National, who finished in a tie for second place with scores of 3-over par 75.
On the team side, Bob Miller and his Cranberry Valley Golf Course squad—consisting of Ed Alves, Mark Gibbons, and Bill Newman—put on a clinical performance in the Two Best Ball of Four format. They distinguished themselves as the only team in the field to complete the round without recording a single team bogey, finishing at 8-under par 136 to secure a four-stroke victory. The teams led by Scott Hickey (Cyprian Keyes GC) and Tom Rooney finished just behind them in a tie for second place at 4-under par 140.
We would like to extend a sincere thank you to the entire staff at Pinehills Golf Club and Director of Golf John Tuffin, PGA, for their exceptional hospitality and for providing a fantastic venue to kick off the Cape Cod Chapter season.