The APT Southern California Chapter made their first-ever stop in San Diego County yesterday at the annual home of the LPGA’s Kia Classic: Aviara Golf Club in Carlsbad for the Flower Bowl. The picturesque Arnold Palmer design proved to be a great tournament host on a perfect day for golf as a great time was had by all.

North County native Chad Tongue made his return to the area a winning one, as he shook off a slow start with 6 birdies in a 10 hole stretch as part of an even par 72, good for a four shot victory in Division 1 over Saddleback College player Denis Watson. A good luck/play well to Chad in the California State Amateur at the Preserve GC next week as he was one of the 156 qualifiers for this prestigious event, joining Jonathan Minkoff representing the APT SoCal!

Playing in his first APT event, Christian Nicolini carded a steady 79 for the victory in Division 2 by two over Phil Caccamise. Tied on the 17th tee, Christian recorded two pars on the difficult closers to take the $125 Visa Gift Card and Flower Bowl Vase. Congratulations to Christian and welcome to the Tour!

Making the turn in Division 3 it was anyone’s game. Six players were separated by four shots, with Lencho Dimas leading the way after a 41 on the front 9. Jose Perez emerged from the pack with a back 9 42 which included 5 pars, completing a round of 86. Julian Vo claimed 2nd by one over Brandan Marshall with his matching 44’s, good for a $50 Visa Gift Card. Jose takes home the Flower Bowl Vase and a $150 Visa Gift Card. Both Division 2&3 played the APT Orange tees at 6450 yards.

Coming off hip surgery, Kurt Odegard had fairly low expectations for the day so he avoided looking at the leaderboard. However, he knew he had played quite well but was still surprised when declared the victor with his very solid 89! Kurt was the lone Division 4 participant to break 90, good for a two shot victory over Rayfield Lewis- who was tied on the 17th tee with Kurt before it claimed another victim. Division 4 played the APT Green tees at 6200 yards.

Dennis McZeal has been on a mission to qualify for the APT North American Championships at Pinehurst in October. He now sits atop the table in Division 5 after his second victory of the year- this time going out in a phenomenal 40 on the front 9 to build an insurmountable lead. Dennis adds the Flower Bowl Vase to his collection, as well as a $75 Visa Gift Card.

TOURNAMENT RESULTS