Chip Lutz, Reading, PA
MOHNTON, Pa. – Local golf legend Chip Lutz, from Reading, Pa., put a lot of time and effort into playing the part of ‘host’ this week at LedgeRock Golf Club for the 4th edition of the Society of Seniors’ National Super Senior Championship. Lutz wore many hats during the week, most importantly the competitive golf cap, as he stood above the rest in finishing the championship at 3-under par, 213 across three rounds.
Lutz, who also won the inaugural National Super Senior Championship in 2020, finished five strokes clear of runner-up Gregory Goode, from Salina, Kan., as Goode posted a three day total of +2, 218. Robert Brooks, of West Des Moines, Iowa, finished in third place at +3, 219. Rounding out the top five in a tie for fourth place at +5 was Marc Fried, of Solon, Ohio, 2021 winner Paul Simson, from Raleigh, N.C., and Hollis Sullivan, from Fort Worth, Texas.
Players had to battle cold temperatures and rainy conditions during the practice round and round one of competition. The final two rounds, while dry, still provided a challenge in the cold, damp, breezy conditions.
The 2006 Rees Jones layout received over three inches of rain leading up to and during the event, but the course drained incredibly well and championship conditions were provided by Superintendent Cody Frederick and his staff.
“It certainly was a challenge with the weather,” said Lutz. “We just came off our big member-guest event, The Rock, where it was just perfect and we had firm and fast conditions with warm weather. Our greens folks really did an incredible job giving us fabulous conditions and presented the course in top shape despite the cold, wet, windy conditions. I’m glad we were able to complete the event and we’re thrilled that as many people came here that did and really enjoyed themselves.”
After sleeping on a five stroke advantage, a bogey on the second hole opened the door just a bit for Lutz’s chasers as his lead shrunk to three on a few occasions during the final round.
“It was tough early on, I made the bogey on two and Hollis was really playing well and Greg was hanging around and nobody was really making any mistakes,” said Lutz. “I was able to pick up the birdie on four to get back to level for the day, but it got a little testy at times, it always does. You expect to have some challenges, and I certainly did. I was pleased with my game today and tried to hold that lead, and fortunately I was able to calm myself and finish down the stretch.”
Playing the part of host at your home club creates certain expectations, and Lutz was able to meet and exceed them against some of the finest super senior amateurs (age 65+) from around the country.
“The hardest part is knowing you’re on your home course and the expectations that come with that, as well as trying to be the best host you can be, and make sure everyone is having a great time,” said Lutz. “It was great to bring a national event to LedgeRock. We’ve had several Golf Association of Philadelphia events here and it was special to have some national players in this week. We had a special dinner at The Fish Pond, it was a wonderful event, and I’m pleased with how it all went off, thrilled to be able to host this year, and also win it. It certainly added a special highlight to my golfing career.”
Lutz posted the low round of the tournament in round two with a 3-under par 69. In the final round, Marc Fried had the low round of the day at 2-under par 70, while Robert Brooks and Jim McNelis (Gig Harbor, Wash.) also posted red numbers at 1-under par 71.
There was a special Players Dinner held on Tuesday evening organized by Lutz at a nearby Fish and Game Club where he is a member. Lobster, oysters, clams, and all the fixings were enjoyed by all in attendance, and it’s safe to say no one left hungry.
Special thanks to owner John Broadbent at LedgeRock and the entire staff and membership of the club, including Head Golf Professional Bill Kindoll, Club Manager Tyler Henry, and Chef Norris Waters. Thanks as well goes to Callaway Golf for their sponsorship of the championship.
