STERLING, Mass.—Kirk Hanefeld (Salem CC) defeated Dan Gillis (Nabnasset Lake CC) in a 1-hole playoff on Monday to capture the 2022 Massachusetts Chapter Championship.
Forty-three PGA Professional competed in the Chapter’s biggest tournament which was held this year at Sterling National Country Club. The par 71 track’s narrow tree lined fairways provided the players with a tough test as only Hanefeld and Gillis broke par on the day. Both the club’s staff and membership were enthusiastic to have the championship and were fantastic hosts.
For much of the day, Rich Berberian Jr. (Vesper CC) held the lead after he carded a round of even par 71 in only the second group. That was until both Hanefeld and Gillis, who played together, came in at 1-under par. Each got to 1-under in similar fashion with Hanefeld recording four birdies and three bogeys while Gillis recorded three birdies and two bogeys.
Once the last card of the day was entered, Hanefeld and Gillis returned to the 1st tee for a sudden death playoff. Both players found themselves in good position laying two with roughly 120 yards into the par-5. Gillis playing first, hit his approach shot over the green while Hanefeld left himself with a lengthy putt. Gillis’ chip left him with 6-feet left for his par while Hanefeld lagged his 4th shot to tap in range. Faced with a par put to extend to a second hole, Gillis narrowly missed his par putt and Hanefeld tapped in for par to secure victory.
This was Hanefeld’ second Chapter Championship in four years, also winning in 2019 at Walpole CC. Berberian finished in solo 3rd place with Nick Desjardins and Liam Friedman tied for 4th place at 1-over par.
On behalf of the entire Massachusetts Chapter, thank you to Sterling National CC, GM Matt DePaolo, and Head Golf Professional Matthew Bradbury for their generous hospitality. The Massachusetts Chapter would also like to thank our partners for this event, Avidia Bank, Callaway, the PGA Tour, and Tournament Solutions!