The Oaks in Somersworth was once again the opening site of the NH Chapter of the NEPGA’s Pro-Am season. Twenty-five teams from New Hampshire, Maine and Massachusetts competed on a sunny and seasonable day. Thanks to PGA Professionals Ben Alexander, Jon Ellis, Pat Thornell, and Superintendent Jeremy Stafford for hosting this event.
Oaks Head Professional Patrick Thornell and his Team
Jason Malcolm of Sky Meadow showed no signs of early season rust. He fired an even par 71 taking the top individual professional competition by one stroke over Dan Wilkins of Laconia CC and Rich Berberian of Vesper. Chris Houston also from Laconia CC finished 4th with a 73, followed by Zach Mahan of Hatherly GC at 74.
The shot of the day came from amateur George Burns from Montcalm GC. He aced the 5th hole, providing some early excitement to the event. It was the second of his career.
George Burns of Montcalm Aced the 5th
In the Team Best Ball Gross competition, one of The Oaks home teams led by Jay Pollini along with Tim Melanson, Josh Johnson and Ben Ekstrom took the top spot with a 66. Laconia’s Houston and Vesper’s Berberian captained their teams to a tie for second at 67.
On the Team Best Ball Net side, Mitch Jefferson of Rochester CC teamed up with Jose Johnson, Ray Blood and Brian Roberge to take the victory with a 12 under par 59. Oaks Head Professional, Pat Thornell and his team finished second at 61. Three teams tied for third at 62.
Lewis White and his Candia Woods Team Opened the 2025 Season
Next week the NH Chapter travels to Campbell’s Scottish Highlands in Salem.