1984 July 16-TIMELINE AND STORIES

The story begins,

 "These are the worst of times." 

I do believe it was true. We felt so helpless like a boat against the tide.

   We wished the winds could bring back our home.

   Our memories of yesterday will last a lifetime.

   We'll take the best, forget the rest. 

   And some day we will find that these were "the best of times."  

(Lines scrambled from the song by Styx "The Best of Times" with lyrics by Dennis Deyoung.)

1984 July 16  FIRE RAZES MIAMI CC CLUBHOUSE

 1986 July 16 "Fire Razes Miami CC Clubhouse"

Weary and grim-faced, Fire Chief Bob Turner and assistant Chief Pete Cooper spent most of the morning sifting through the rubble of what once was the clubhouse of Miami Golf and Country Club. The two men pinpointed a faulty electrical wiring conduit as the probable cause of the fire which completely gutted the stately old landmark early Sunday morning. Cooper said that it was unlikely that the State Fire Marshal's Office would be asked to investigate the fire. "At this time, I don't think there is any reason for them to."

Meanwhile, club officials were huddling to make plans for the building's reconstruction and club manager, Bob Hill Jr., voiced that the calamity would not half the clubs operation. "This has always been a great country club," Hill said this morning. "It was the day before yesterday and it still is today. 

As if in affirmation of Hill's optimism, golfers (who did not store their clubs at the clubhouse) were seen on the club's 18-hole course late Sunday morning, teeing off as the smoke still rose from the ruins and tiny flames flickered in the rubble. 

All the club's 44 battery-operated golf carts, valued at $3,000 a piece, were destroyed in the fire. When not in use the golf carts were stored in the basement connected to the pro shop. The batteries in each had been hooked up to individual chargers that were plugged into a network of extension cords, according to Turner and Cooper. 

View of the blaze in the basement containing the electric golf carts.

Golf Pro Don Atchison said 200 sets of golf clubs belonging to members also were kept in the basement. They, too, were destroyed. Atchison said the replacement value of the clubs totals $150,000. The pro shop's $25,00 inventory and about $10,000 worth of supplies went up in the flames. 

Club officials were arranging the establishment of a temporary pro shop and club office, to be located in a mobile home near the old structure. Replacement golf carts were also being ordered. Because the club's records were destroyed in the fire, the 368 members are being asked to bring their accounts up to date. 

The clubhouse was built in 1929 New Rockdale Clubhouse

 

Onlookers on the north lawn and putting green, sadly survey the skeletal remains of the fire-ravaged clubhouse Sunday morning. *News-Record photos by Ed Howard and Gerald Breeden. 

1984 July 16 "Sad Day on MCC Hill"

There were a lot of jokes about the leaky roof, the musty locker rooms, the tiny pro shop. But the old matriarch of the hill had some classic memories. The Miami Golf and Country Club burned early Sunday and the shock of loss was great. You could see that on faces in cars pulling in for lunch Sunday. They hadn't heard. Some tears were shed. 

But with the first light Sunday, golfers were trudging past the smoldering remains of at least most of the golf clubs in Miami; they were on their to No. 1 tee. Wouldn't you know it? All members clubs and the carts were in the basement of the clubhouse. 

Already plans are underway to replace the huge 19,568-square-foot structure. But Miami and visitors will miss the sentinel on the hill. 

1984 July 17

Personal photograph of Johnie Stapp, former Pro Emeritus of the Miami Golf and Country Club.

 

After this photo was taken, Dad drove home and changed into his farm overalls. He then returned to the scene and began sifting through the rubble. I saw tears streaming down his face that afternoon. 

1984 July 18--23 Adds such as this one appeared daily in the Miami News-Record. The story was covered in detail through the state and four-state area.

 **Thirteen days later the club began to operate using the new mobile home parked on the practice tree grounds West of the clubhouse circle drive. 

**John Finley recalled that he had a set of Hogan irons that he enjoyed hitting and then a brand new-Hogan bag that he won at Baxter Springs, the week before the fire. " I lost it all. It was a sad day for all of us. The replacement clubs came in within a couple of weeks. The new Hogan tour irons were not forgiving. They had a sweet spot the size of a dime."

We rented a trailer and turned the back bedroom into a card room for and a bar for the men. It was a 15x60 foot trailer with inside bathrooms and air-conditioning.  

1984 July 29 "Ladies Golf Notes"

Wednesday's Ladies Golf Association will resume play with an 8:00 shotgun start. They will play for points. 

Tee #: 1--Faye Berentz, Jean Ann Blue, Gail Beck, Millie Burford; 2--Melba Cordell, Neeta Couch, Ruth Heyburn, Marian Richards; 3--Geneva Ramsay, Janie Clay, Ruie Lucas, Virginia Sapp; 4-- Beverly Jackson, Noma Newman, Pattye Moores, Jerry Ramsey; 5--Claire Oliver, Carla Roller, Penny Ramsey, Rosie Womastek; 6--Billie Pace, Fern Toye, Pat Platt, Ann Chancellor; 7-Lavon Young, Yvonne Temple, Laverne Munson, Pauline Taylor; 8--Aileen Bradshaw, Lottie Mae Russell, Dorothy Hester; 9--Carol Jones, Virginia Heydt, Joanie Jones. 

Afternoon pairings will be made at the tee. Those players include Candy Couch, Dede Martin, Ann Foster, Marji Grayson, Judy Grissom, Marilyn Hill, Judy Kemper, Sue Riley, Coweta Scoggins, Carolyn Anderson, Liz Follis, and Nadine Paul. 

A business meeting will be held at 1:00 at the Continental Restaurant. 

1984 August 5 "Youth Golf"

The Miami Country club Junior Championship will be held Friday beginning at 8:00 with the 18-hole players:

18-holers--Steve Becker, Matt Brady, Marshall Smith; Richie Lillard, Steve Hill; Ron Coker, Robert Elmburg, Scott Kreeger; Steven Long, B.J. Mann, Howard Condren; Jeff Goodrich, John Molinar, Sherri Atchison, Christy Smith. 

9-holers (9:00am) Kevin Collingsworth, Michael Fitzgibbon, Richard Stewart; Jimmy Rutter, Allen Douthitt, Eric Elmburg; Brandon Farris, Erin Fitzgibbon, Jimmy Green; Daryle Gee, John West, Bobby Homer; Chad Davis, Scott Mann, Donald Wilson; Bobby Seybolt, Chris Bourne, Robin Orcutt, Paige Parrott, Lori Lillard, Melissa Molinar; Kari Swogger, Shauna Fitzgibbon, Peggy Shelton.

2-holers (9:30)--Shawn Delmer, Aaron Sedberry, Charlie Haney; Shadd Delmer, Tony Atchison, Greg Smith; Shane Fitzgibbon, Ryan Gatewood, Bobby Green; Drew Austin, Jeff Gullett; Shane Delmez, Haley Finley, Chelsea Levo, Meagan Winters; Mary Rutter, Angela Barr; Linda Gray, Leslie Harmon, Shannon Kerr.

4-holers (10:00) Scott Spetich, Jason Winters, Adam Jones; Ray Shelton, Alex Edwards; Chris Paul, Greg Painter, Ben Brady; Evan Eatman, Greg Fitzgibbon, Larry Heard; Jason Hill, Frank Spetich, Corbin West; Gavin Finley, Tom Wilson, Cindy Shelton, Kasie Sly, Amanda Long; Jennifer Gatewood, Julie Jeffries; Jera Wyrick, Amy Smith, Michele Jones. 

Persons unable to play should call Connie Swogger, 540-1667 or Sandy Hunt, 542-6270. Scorers will be notified by phone.

1984 August 8 "Lietzke to Hold Clinic Saturday"

Professional golfer Bruce Lietzke will present an exhibition and golf clinic Saturday at the Miami Country club, 1915 Cleveland, as a fund-raising benefit for a new clubhouse. 

Lietzke's clinic is scheduled from 4:30-5:15. A nine-hole exhibition is scheduled from 5:35 to 7:30pm. Playing with him will be his brother, Brian Lietzke, club pro Don Atchison, and club champion Mike Craig.

Tickets are $5 per person. 

1984 August 8 "MCC Handicap Title Claimed by Jim Riley"

 Firing rounds of 63 and 62, Jim Riley captured the MCC handicap championship. Riley's two-round score of 125 was seven strokes better than second place finisher Mike Glasman, who had rounds of 63-69. 

There was a three-way tie for third between John Robinson Sr., Bob Haney and John Daugherty, all with scores of 133. 

The men's scratch championship phase of the tournament continues this weekend. The current leader is John Daugherty with gross rounds of 70-73. Dr. W.D. Jackson is second with 144, John Robinson Jr. holds down third with 147.

The men's horserace is scheduled for Friday at 5pm. The MCC long drive contest and club throwing contest will be held following the horserace. 

1984 August 12 "Youth Golfers Claim Honors"

Winners in nine divisions of play were decided Friday during the youth club championship at MCC. Claiming honors in each division were:

18-hole girls--1st Sherri Atchison; 2nd Christy Smith.

18-hole boys A Flight--1st Marshall Smith; 2nd Richie Lillard.

18-hole boys B Flight--1st Steven Long; 2nd Howard Condren.

9-hole girls--1st Kari Swogger; 2nd, Paige Parrott.

9-hole boys--1st Michael Fitzgibbon, 2nd Kevin Collingsworth.

4-hole girls--1st Jennifer Gatewood; 2nd, Cindy Shelton.

4-hole boys--1st Chris Paul; 2nd Jason Hill.

2-hole girls--1st Angela Barr; 2nd Mary Rutter.

2-hole boys--1st Shane Delmez; 2nd Jeff Gullett. 

1984 August 13 "Lietzke Fires 33 in Exhibition Here" 

 Bruce Lietzke capped off an outstanding evening of swing demonstration, close-up personal information and playing ability by firing a 3-under-par 33 at the back nine during a fundraising event for the Miami Country Club's new clubhouse.

Throughout the evening and especially during the swing demonstration, the personable 10-time tour winner furnished the crowd with interesting information regarding his tournament preparations, playing philosophy, future plans, favorite events and coping on the tour.

Lietzke, the playing pro from Shangri-la Resort, donated his time, for which he normally receives $3,000, to help raise money for the new clubhouse. 

1984 August 15 "Craig Captures 3rd MCC Championship"

Mike Craig parred the fourth hole of a sudden death playoff against John Robinson Jr. and captured his third straight MCC Championship. Craig shot rounds of 73,79, 77 and 73 while Robinson turned in scores of 73, 75, 75, 79. 

Third place went to John Daugherty with a 363 total. Ed Schmidt was fourth with a 308. There was a tie for fifth between Bill Harsch and Dr. W.D. Jackson, both finishing with 310s. 

1984 August 19 "Hattie Wall Handicap Tourney"

The annual Hattie Wall handicap tournament will be held Wednesday and Friday at the MCC. Twenty-two women have signed up to play. 

1984 August 19 "Foursome Captures Horserace"

Marshall Smith, Jim Rutter, George Couch, and Lloyd Cowgill combined to capture top honors in a four-man horserace in conjunction with the men's Fall Festival. 

George Foster, Pat Wilson, Jim Hill, and Dick Seybolt were second while Bob Thompson, Don Barr, Jim Thompson, and Jeff Smith placed-third.

1984 August 20 "Team No. 9 Uses Rally to Claim Fall Festival"

Team No. 9 consisting of Bill Harsch, George Myers, Frank Remiss and Ken Grissom, rallied to finish with 313 points on Sunday to capture the honors of the annual Fall Festival at MCC. Team #17 finished in second with 301 points. That team consisted of George Foster, Pat Wilson, Jim Hill and Dick Seybolt. 

Third went to team #13 which consisted of John Heyburn, Bob Temple, Lynn Davis, and Max Dull with 299 points.  

Individual point winners were George Myers and Jerry Mustain who tied with 85 points. Don Cherry took third with 84 points while fourth went to Schooner Schmidt at 83 points and Jim Hill was fifth with 82 points.

 Winning the Lame Duck consolation flight open to the bottom 10 teams was Team #14 of Jack Doan, Steve Cherry, Lou Mirjanich and Rick Wright with a one-day score of 153 points.

1984 August 22 "Twilight League Title Claimed"

The foursome Jim Riley, Jim Hill, George Couch, and Larry Gatewood finished with 23 point to nose past the team of Tim Eatman, Mike Sexton, John Finley, and Leroy Collins for first place. 

Pat Wilson took individual low gross honors with 37. He and Jerry Gullett shared low net kudos with 36 strokes. Low putts went to Gary West. Highest score on a hole went to Al Goforth, who scored an eight on #1.

 1984 August 30 "Grayson Third in Golf Tourney"

Marj Grayson competed in a statewide golf tournament for employees of the Oklahoma State Employment Service. The tournament, which was for both men and women, was held last weened in Shawnee, Ok. 

Mrs. Grayson placed third in her flight and was awarded a trophy. Mrs. Grayson is an interviewer in the Miami office. 

1984 September 2 "Ladies Golf Notes"

Claire Oliver breezed to the title of the Hattie Wall Handicap golf tournament which wrapped up earlier this week. Oliver had a 54-hole score of 297 to outdistance runner-up Faye Berentz who carded a 212. 

Placing third was Ruie Lucas, Melba Cordell claimed fourth and Millie Carter was fifth. Aileen Bradshaw was first in the nine-hole division. Wednesday's play will be an 18-hole "Upside Down Clubs" scramble. Tee time will be at 8 a.m. with pairings made at 7:45. 

The monthly MLGA meeting will be held at the home of Mrs. George Newman. All morning and afternoon players are encouraged to attend.

Winners of last week's play for low gross were Faye Berentz, championship flight; Ann Chancellor, A flight; Ruie Lucas, B flight; and Carol Jones, 9-hole flight. 

1984 September 11 "2-Man, 4-Man Best Ball Competition"

 Mark and Greg Riley won two-man honors and there was a tie for first for the four-man honors Sunday during the competition at the MCC. The Riley's shot a 19-under 53 (net) to win the title over John and James Heyburn with a 55. There was a tie for third at 56 between Phil Follis and Tim Eatman, and Greg Riley with Steve Sly. Sharing fifth at 57 were the teams of Don Barr-Al Moffatt, John Heyburn-Steve Cherry, James Heyburn-Don Cherry.

In the 4-man best ball the teams of Eatman, Renegar, Follis and Schliep tied with Greg Riley, Mark Riley, Dull, and Sly by shooting 51s. Dull won the horserace Friday night at MCC. Renegar was second while Bill Sommerfield claimed third.  

1984 September 19 "A Proper Grip"

A proper grip on the golf club is vital, MCC pro Don Atchison tells Miami High School Shelly Kraus. Atchison is volunteering his time and talents to teach golfing fundamentals to members of Kris Morgan's P.E. classes. 

Morgan said that Atchison's participation is on of the multi-faceted concept designed to give students an insight to so-called "lifetime sports." Classes in archery and rifle shooting will be taught by other experienced volunteers, Mrs. Morgan said.

 1984 September 23 "Ladies Club Championship

Taking honors in the MCC women's club championship were from left, Ruth Heyburn, second in the championship flight; Pat Platt Championship Flight winner; Rosemary Womastek, first in A flight; Ruie Lucas, first in B flight, and Carol Jones, 9-hole flight winner. Not shown are Laverne Munson, second in A flight, and Neeta Couch, second in B flight. 

 Our Tribute to those who loved the game.

 

 

 

1983 TIMELINE AND STORIES OF MGCC

 

I didn't know this faithful dog, named Mickey, but many friends on Facebook posted notes about him when I began this history a few years ago. On one of my quiet tours of the old country club I found this marker, down the road from the cartbarn.

1983 March 29 “Golfers Top Pryor, Claremore”

Keith Neel carded a 6-over-par 78 to lead the Miami golfers to wins over Claremore and Pryor at the MGCC. The Wardogs, now 3-0 on the season, finished with a 338 compared to 343 for Claremore and 375 for Pryor.

Steve Becker was next with an 81; Tom Rieger shot the third best round for Miami with an 89 while Darren Foster followed with a 90. Chip Hammons scored a 92.

1983 April 8 “Miami Golfers Nab Two Wins”

Thanks to three 39s and a 37 on the back nine, Miami breezed to a pair of golf victories Thursday at the Pryor Municipal golf course. The Wardogs compiled a team score of 327 to best Pryor’s 353 and Collinsville, at 383.

Keith Neel and Darren Foster shared medalist honors with 10-over par 81s. Steve Becker and tom Rieger also shot 39s on the back side with Becker finishing with an 82 while Rieger toured in 83. Chip Hammons carded a 95 for the Wardogs.

“For the amount of time we were able to be outside this week (rain delays), I thought we played well. The conditions were not real great, “said Miami Coach Archie Loehr. “Hopefully, we will be able to bring the scores down even more,” he said.

1983 April 11 “Golf Notes”

Wednesday’s Ladies Golf Association play will be low gross. The pairings:

18-hole play

9 a.m. Evelyn Hatfield, Faye Berentz, Geneva Ramsey, Beverly Jackson; Marylyn Adams, Pat Platt, Jean Ann Blue, Lib Lillard, Pattye Moores; Yvonne Temple, Jan Follis, Pauline Taylor, Ruie Lucas; Helen Moore, Ruth Heyburn, Gail Beck, LaVerne Munson; Ann Chancellor, Noma Newman, Virginia Kerr, Fern Toye; Barbara Shouse, LaVon Young, Mary Helen Hunt, Rosalie Patterson; Melba Cordell, Liz Follis, Millie Carter, Billie Pace; Claire Oliver, Virginia Sapp, Marian Richards, Rosemary Womastek.

9-holel play:

10 a.m. Maxine Jeffries, Dorothy Hester, Virginia Heydt, Carla Roller; Mary Robinson, Jerry Ramsay, Imogene Clay, Billie Neal, Aileen Bradshaw; Jean Phillips, Jean McGann, Betty Robeson, Betty Schwertfeger.

Afternoon play:

Dede Martin, Judy Kemper, Judy Long, Ann Foster, Marilyn Hill, Candy Couch, Judy Grissom, Nadine Paul, Sue Riley, Nora Coleman, Janie Clay.

1983 April 11 “4-Man Scramble Kicks of MCC Season”

The team of Mike Craig, John Kerr, Dick Seabolt, and Harry McCoy combined to take first place in the season’s first men’s event at the Miami Country Club. The winners turned in a 66 while the team of Dr. W.D. Jackson, Gary Davis, Al Goforth and Rob Kimbrough won a pitchoff to take second. They fired a 67.

Third went to the team of John Daugherty, Mark Riley, Tim Eatman, and Pete Foster while Tim Williams, Kenny Young, Dr. Pat Kragt and Woody Painter combined to place fourth.

1983 April 13 “Wardog Golfers Romp to Conference Crown”

Miami breezed to an 11-stroke victory during the Metro Lakes Conference golf tournament at Pryor golf course. Steve Becker and Darren Foster headed up the attack for the Wardogs. Becker took medalist honors with 80 and Foster finishing in a tie for second at 81.

Rounding out the scoring for Miami was Keith Neel with an 85, Tom Rieger at 91, and Chip Hammons was fifth man for the team and shot a 96.

1983 April 26 “B’ville Wins Miami Tourney”

Three rounds of sub-80 golf helped Bartlesville breeze to the team title of the annual Miami Invitational golf tournament Monday at the Miami Country club. Bolstered by Ashley Reeder’s medalist score of 74, the Bruins outdistanced runner-up Miami by 319-330.

The was the second straight year for the Wardogs to finish runner-up. Miami’s Keith Neel, Steve Becker, and Darren Foster were all bunched together in seventh in the medalist race at 82.

Tom Rieger and Vinita’s Sheila Luginbuel, the only female competitor in the tournament, tied for 10^th with 84s.

1983 April 27 “Twilight League Play Starts”

Defending champion Team #15 turned in the low team net to kick off action in the Men’s Twilight League Tuesday night at Miami Country club.

Ron Schliep, Phil Follis, C.J. Carselowey and John Kerr combined for 144 strokes and shared the league points with Team #8 of John Robinson Sr., Larry Ramsey, George Couch, and Larry Gatewood. Team #16 of Ken Williams, Jim Moore, Monk Campbell, and Bob Baldridge were low in putts.

1983 April 29 “Robinson Eyes Repeat”

John Robinson Jr. returns to defend his Ottawa County Championship golf title during the 1983 tournament which begins Saturday at MCC.

1983 May 3 “Wardog Golfers Regional Champs”

STATE BOUND AGAIN--MHS's golfers wrapped up another Class 3A regional championship Monday at Tulsa, qualifying for the tournament for the third straight year. Member of the team include front, Darren Foster and Keith Neel. At back are Tom Rieger, Dan McKinney, Steve Becker, Coach Archie Loehr.

Wrapping up its first regional title in at least the past decade, Miami’s Wardog golfers breezed to the team title in the Class 3A golf tournament at Page Belcher Golf Course in Tulsa.

The Wardogs fired a team score of 304 on the final round, finishing with a 623 compared to 636 for Claremore. Tulsa Kelley carded a 646. This will be the third straight year for Miami to be represented in the state meet and the fifth time out of the last seven years. Last year they finished eighth.

During Monday’s play Keith Neel was second in the medalist chase while Darren Foster won the playoff with Greg Ellis of Tulsa Kelley for third. Steve Becker had carbon-copy rounds of 78 for 156 while Tom Rieger notched an 82 and an 83 to close with 165. Miami's  #5 man, Dan McKinney, shot a 174.

“Our scores were better than what they were last Thursday,” said Loehr, “Plus, the fact that we played 36 last week really helped. We may have been more mentally prepared to play the last 18 than the other schools were because we did have some good scores that second 18. For kids that age, it’s a real test to keep their concentration the last nine holes.”

1983 May 10 “Wardogs Claim 3^rd Place”

Turning in one of its best finishes in recent history, the Miami High School golf team placed third at the Class 3A state golf tournament which wrapped up Tuesday at the University of Oklahoma course. Duncan won its second straight team title with a score of 943 which was 14 strokes better than Webster Heights of OKC. Miami was 29 shots back of Duncan with 972.

Keith Neel, who trailed the medalist, Whipple, by just three strokes after two rounds, battled rainy weather and struggled to an 82 on Tuesday to finish third in the medalist race. Steve Becker finished 11^th in the medalist standings with a 245. He fired a 77 on Tuesday, Miami’s best individual score, to go along with the 83 and 85 from Monday.

Rounding out the Wardogs scores were Darren Foster 246, Dan McKinney 255, and Tom Rieger 256.

1983 May 22 “Craig, Robinson Share Lead”

 

Former Ottawa County Champion, Kent Jeffries, checks out a short putt at the 18th green during Saturday's first round of play at the MCC. Jeffries finished with a 77.

Mike Craig and David Robinson Jr. sloshed to rounds of 73 and the lead of the rain-delayed 1983 Ottawa County Championship. Because of rain delays Saturday’s play was completed in the dusk at 8:00 pm.

1983 May 23 “Robinson’s Keep Trophy in Family”

Don Atchison, pro, hands trophy to David Robinson, Jr. ,John Robinson Jr. observes.

It was a case of “All in the Family” Sunday when David Robinson Jr. breezed to the title of the 1983 Ottawa County Golf Championship. Robinson, firing carbon-copy rounds of 73 on Saturday and Sunday, succeeds his uncle, John Robinson Jr., as tournament champion.

“I hit the ball really well but had 7u0 putts the last two days,” said David. “I didn’t get a whole lot of putts to go in the hole.” The only time Robinson was in real trouble on Sunday was on No. 15.

“I hit a 3-wood off the tee and hit it up against the out-of-bounds fence,” he said. “I had a half-swing at it, punched it through and over the water, hit a wedge onto the green and left my birdie putt about an inch short of the hole.”

Other flight winners were Dennis Bowman in President’s flight, Floyd Auld in A and Al Goforth in B flight.

John Robinson Jr, finished in a four-way tie for third with Dr. W.D. Jackson, Dave Pawlus and Kent Jeffries.

In President’s flight Tom Cordell Jr. was second with 162, while Tom Rogers, Tim Williams, and Dwight Westerfelt shared third at 165.

Auld finished with a 172 in A flight with Boyd Goodwin and James McGinty tied for second, both having round of 173. Steve Sly was just a stroke behind with a 174 while Monk Campbell placed fifth with a 175.

Goforth edged out Mark Riley and John Kerr for honors in the B flight.

MCC pro Don Atchison expressed appreciation to Grissom Distributing for beer, hats, and a gold putter, won by Pepper Martin for hitting closest to the hole on No. 7 during Saturday’s round.

1983 May 26 “Neel Tops Open Qualifying”

Former Miamian Will Neel carded an even-par 142 to lead a group of nine golfers who survived a 36-hole local qualifying round at the Okc Golf and Country Club for the 83 U.S. Open Golf Championship. Neel, a former Okc University golfer who graduated from OCU last week, shot 72-70 over the 6,736 yard, pare 71 course in capturing medalist honors.

This is the third time Neel has survived the qualifying rounds but failed to advance past sectionals in two previous tries.

“I’m hoping the third time is the charm,” said Nel, whose eligibility at OCU ran out last fall. “I didn’t really know how I’d play because I haven’t played in a tournament since November. You can go out and work on your game, but you can’t test how you’ll hold up under pressure until you play a tournament.”

The top nine finishers advance to the sectional qualifying championship on Jun 6-7 at Ft. Worth, Tex or Kansas City, Missouri.

1983 June 1 “Youth Golf”

Pairings for the year’s first round of junior golf at the Miami Golf and Country Club are:

2 holes 8:30 am—Mary Rutter, Kelly Garrett, Heather McGinty and Joyce Rutter, scorer; Corbin West, Derek Farris, Shawn Williams, and Marty Gullett, scorer; Shane Fitzgibbon, Jeff Gullett, Gavin Finley and Ruth Ann Farris, scorer; Michael Rapp, Greg Fitzgibbon, Steven Renegar and Tim Williams, scorer; Ryan Gatewood, Jamie Neel, and Mary Ellen Rapp, scorer.

4 holes 8:30 am—Amanda Long, Kari Swogger, Renee Kreeger, and Janice Gatewood, scorer; Jennifer Gatewood, Laurie Schmidt and Jackie Kreeger, scorer; John West, Jason Hill, Chris Paul and Karen Painter, scorer; Kevin Collingsworth, Steven Hill, Erin Fitzgibbon and Arlene Seybolt, scorer; Eric Elmburg, Bobby Seybolt, Chris Moffatt and Pat Collingsworth, scorer; Grey Painter, Brandon Farris, Alan Douthitt, and Linda Elmburg, scorer; Damon Mills, Jerrod Keune, Richard Stewart, and Bob Hill, scorer.

9 holes 9:30 am—Toni Goforth, Cyndi Ray, Melissa Molinar and Better Parrott, scorer; Paige Parrott, Shawn Fitzgibbon, Jamie Garrette, and Alan Goforth, scorer; Mary Neel, Lori Lillard and Floy Ray, scorer; Daryle Gee, Trey Pendergrass, Jeff Ramsey, and Linda Goodrich, scorer; Trey Gee, Scott Kreeger, Howard Condren, and Geneva Ramsey, scorer; Kim McCubbin, Leighan Hill and Cathy Smith, scorer; Jimmy Rutter, Michael Fitzgibbon, Jeff Goodrich, Robert Elmburg, and JoAnne Pendergrass, scorer.

18 holes 8:00am—Kendra Goodrich and Sherri Atchison; John Molinar, Stephen Long, Richie Lillard, and Billy Seybolt; Marshall Smith and Steve Becker; Matt Brady, Brett Wisdom and Keith Neel.

1983 June 2 The Daily Ardmoreite “State Amateur Semifinalists”

 Semifinal rounds played on Thursday at the Women’s State Amateur Golf Tournament at Dornick Hills Country club were Julie Rieger of Miami and Sherri Atchison of Miami comparing notes while getting ready to tee of No. 9. Rieger won the juniors match 4 and 2 to earn a spot in the finals.

1983 June 5 “Ladies Golf Notes”

The winning team for last Wednesday’s scramble was Faye Berentz, Barbara Shouse, Jerry Ramsey, and Rosie Womastek. Ringer winners for the month of May were: championship flight, Evelyn Hatfield; A flight, Ann Chambers; B flight, Rosie Womastek, and 9-hole Aileen Bradshaw.

The Sunrise league play on June 7 will begin at 8;30 with a shotgun start. A picnic will follow play at Pauline Taylor’s lake home. Regular players should bring a salad and table service and the substitute players bring hor d’oeurves and table service.

1983 June 5 “Smith Wins Horse Race”

Dabney Smith Jr. captured first place in a horse race Friday night at Miami Country club. Steve Renegar was second while John Mills finished third.

Rounding out the field were Dr. Howard Condren, Mike Long, Schooner Schmidt, J.T. Clay, Tom House, Tim Eatman, and Gary Shepherd.

1983 June 7 “Limes Helps Team Win Title”

Cedar Ridge Country club assistant pro Kenny Limes helped his team capture top honors during the annual Miami Country club pro-am golf tournament. Limes combined with Tulsans Steve Nelson and Seth Herndon and Bob Baldridge of Miami for a 19 under par 53 to breeze to the team title.

1983 June 10 “Neel Wins Insurance Golf”

Keith Neel, who finished third at the Class 3A state golf tournament last month, captured medalist honors during the 1983 Insurance Youth Classic at the MCC. Neel nosed past Marshall Smith for top honors in the Championship flight by carding a 18-hole total of 76, while Smith finished with a 77.

Steve Becker, another member of the MHS team, placed third with an 80 while Brett Wisdom was fourth with an 86. The top three finishers advance to the state tournament next week at Page Belcher golf course in Tulsa.

1983 June 15 “Team 15 Leads Again”

Team #15 continued to dominate play in the Men’s Twilight League by taking low net honors Tuesday night at the Miami Country club. The foursome of Don Barr, Bob Thompson, John Kerr, and C.J. Carselowey completed their play with 135 strokes. Team #15 now has 51 ½ points, which is 9 ½ points ahead of second place Team # 3.

Taking honors in team low putts was the team of Tim Williams, Monk Campbell, Jim Moore and Bob Baldridge with 65 putts. John Doty was the leader in individual low gross and individual low net. He shot a gross score of 37 and a net of 30.

1983 June 23 The Ardmoreite “Four Juniors Left”

Sherri Atchison of Miami, hits out of the trap.

 Only four junior players remain in the Junior Girls State Golf Tournament at Dornick Hills. Karen Smith, Tulsa, Beth Brown, Sallisaw, Julie Rieger, Miami and Sherri Atchison of Miami will be in today’s semifinal match-ups.

In consolation play, Christy Smith, Miami, beat Gayle Galt, Tulsa, 1 up with Julie Bush, OKC taking an 8 and 6 win over Edmond’s Tami Proctor, who at age 12 is the youngest competitor in the tournament. Cathy Smith, Miami, and Elizabeth Roll, Tulsa, drew byes Wednesday.

1983 June 24 The Ardmoreite  “Rieger Drives to Crown”

For the second day in a row, Miami’s Julie Rieger loved her drives. “They were great today,” the 13-year-old said following her 4 and 3 victory over Jenks senior Karen Smith in the Championship Flight final of the Junior Girls State Tournament at Dornick Hills. “I just love ‘em. It’s usually the best part of my game, anyway, but yesterday and today I was really hitting them good. I nearly drove the green on hole number seven. I love that hole” continued Rieger.

Rieger never trailed in her match with Smith. In the consolation fifnal OKC’s Julie Bush, defeated Miami’s Christy Smith, 4 and 3. Rieger, who was the junior state runner-up to Melissa McNamara last year, may forgo defending her junior championship next season, choosing to play in the women’s state tournament instead. She is one of three state girls who will be representing the state in this summer’s National Junior tournament.

1983 June 27 “Neel Wins One for the Road”

1983 July 8 “Youth Golfers Claim Honors”

Miami youth golfers captured honors one two fronts Thursday. Keith Neel won the Neosho, Missouri while Sherri Atchison was crowned girls champion at the Tom Lobaugh Junior Invitational of Tulsa.

Neel, a member of the MHS golf team, finished with a 72 to nose out fellow Miamian Steve Becker for top honors. Becker shot a round of 74. Richie Lillard won the three-way sudden death playoff to take second in the nine-hole flight with a 41.

Atchison carded an 89 Thursday at the Tulsa tournament, played at Mohawk Park, and won by a whopping 13 strokes over Lisa Barrett of Tulsa. Atchison finished with a 54-hole total of 273 with other rounds of 97 and 87. Barrett finished with a 286.

1983 July 10 “Youth Golf”

Results from Friday’s junior golf play:

2-holes: Heather McGinty, low score; Debbie Newman, low putts: Jeff Gullett, low score; Corbin West, low putts.

4-holes:

Kari Swogger, low score; Amanda Long and Carrie Sedberry, low putts: Richard Stewart, low score; Chris Paul and Kevin Collingsworth, low putts.

9-holes:

Jamie Garrett, low score; Melissa Molinar, low putts; (14 year olds) Kendra Goodrich, low score and low putts: Jeff Ramsey, low score; Howard Condren, low putts.

18-hole: Sherri Atchison, low score and low putts; Keith Neel, low score; Brett Wisdom, low putts. (B flight boys) Richie Lillard, low score and putts.

1983 July 10 “Ladies Golf”

There was a tie in last Wednesday’s play between the teams of Virginia Sapp, Ann Chancellor, Faye Berentz, Millie Carter, and Geneva Ramsey, Barbara Shouse, Billie Neal, LaVern Munson.

1983 July 17 "Youth Winners"

Winners of the junior golf play Friday were front row, Jeff Gullett, Gavin Fitzgibbon and Shawn Williams; second row, Richard Stewart, Keven Collingsworth, Alan Douthitt, Jason Hill, Toni Goforth, Carrie Sedberry, Jan Haney and Kari Swogger; third row, Ronnie Coker, Steve Long, Kendra Goodrich, Kim McCubbin, Leighan Hill, Richie Lillard, Tina Moore, Lori Lillard, Shana Fitzbibbon and Paige Parrott.

1983 July 17 “Finley, Ramsey Win”

Mixed horse race results Friday night a the MCC have been announced.

The team of John Finley and Geneva Ramsey won the pitch-off on #18. Other teams and their placings were Gary Shepherd, Evelyn Hatfield, second; Blair Swogger, Claire Oliver third; J.P. Williams, Janie Clay, fourth; Jim Reese, Ann Foster, fifth; John Kerr, Ruth Heyburn, sixth; Robb Garwood, Pat Platt, seventh; Mike Craig, Marilyn Hill, eighth; Don Cherry, Judy Kemper, ninth; and Jim Hill and Faye Berentz, tenth.

Ray Curtis took first place in the men’s horse race held a week ago. Other winners were George Couch, second, Rob Kimbrough, third; John Burford, fourth; Jerry Gullett, fifth; John Elmburg, sixth; Ron Schlief, seventh; Bob Baldridge, eighth; Phil Follis, ninth; and John Ratliff, tenth.

1983 July 24 “Women Golfers to Compete”

 

Sherri Atchison will be competing in the Tri-State Golf tournament.

Miami Ladies Golf association will host the annual 3-day Women’s Tri-State Golf tournament. For the first time it will be held on the new 18-hole golf course. Early records show that the Tri-State Golf Association was formed in 1922. Today there are 29 club memberships in Kansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma. The field has grown from 40 participants to a limited field of 144. Miami hosted the tournament in 1941, 1948, 1957, and 1970. Miami’s Helen Jo Painter served as tournament president in 1948, Lois Garwood was president in 1967 and 1970; Jonya Stapp, daughter of then MCC pro Johnie Stapp, won the 1970 event. This year Faye Berentz is the tournament director and also in charge of the horse race.

1983 July 24 “Junior Winners”

Junior winners at MCC after Friday’s play were front from left Damon Mills, 9-hole putting winner; Christy Smith, girls 18-hole runner-up; Sherri Atchison, girls 18-hole winner and Jeff Ramsey, boys 9-hole winner. Back row, Keith Neel boys 18-hole winner; Steve Becker, runner-up; and Howard Condren 9-hole runner-up. Not pictured is Keith Sedberry boy 9 hole driving winner.

1983 July 25 “Neel, Day Share Lead at MCC Invitational”

Miami native Will Neel, in his final tune-up before hitting the professional tour, and Kansan Jack Day fired 1-under par 71’s Saturday to share the first-round lead in the 28 annual MCC Invitational golf tournament. Neel is shooting for his fourth MCC Invitational title and third in a row., winning by one stroke both in 1981 and 1982. His other victory came in 1978.

Another stroke back of Jack Day is Dean Orem of Joplin, while Frank Jacobs and Gary Risner turned in 73s. Marshall Smith and H.B. Warren shot 74s while Kent Jeffries, Dr. H.I Grassle, Cy Elmburg, former champion Romie Holder and David Robinson Jr are all jammed at 77s.

1983 July 26 “Instant Replay”

 

Maybe they should rename it the Will Neel Invitational. Miami native Will Neel.

1983 July 29 “Tri-State Winners”

1983 August 7 “Ladies Golf”

The team of Ruth Heyburn, Janie Clay, and Rosemary Womastek won the 18-hole scramble last Wednesday. July ringer winners include championship, Candy Couch; A flight, Yvonne Temple; B flight, LaVerne Munson; 9-hole flight, Jerry Ramsey.

1983 August 10 “City Golfers Lead Tourney”

Keith Neel, Sherri Atchison, and Marshall Smith lead their respective divisions in the Junior PGA Tournament of Champions at Mohawk Park, Tulsa after the first day of play.

Neel carded a three-under-par 69 to take the lead in the 16-17 boys division. Atchison opened up a whopping four-shot lead in the 14-15 girls division by carding an 82. Smith is the pacesetter in the 12-13 boys division.

1983 August 11 “Youth Golfers Place”

Miamian Keith Neel finished fourth, Marshall Smith second, and Sherri Atchison third following the final round of play in the Junior Tournament of Champions.

Neel, the first-round leader with a 69, struggled to an 83 and had to settle for fourth place in the 16-17 boys division. His final score was 152. Brian Grimes of Stillwater shot a 75 to capture top honors with a 146.

Marshall Smith saw Tulsan Mike Phenicie rally from a five-stroke deficit to win the 12-13 boys title. Smith closed with an 83 and total of 158 while Phenicie carded a 77 to close with a 158.

Atchison struggled Wednesday shooting an 87 for the final 18 holes in the 14-15 girls division. Donna Lowen of Hays, Kansas, scored an 83 to pull even with Atchison at 169, then won a three-hole playoff of for second place. Lisa Barrett of Tulsa rallied to shoot an 81 for a total of 168 to win the title.

 1983 August 23 “Craig Wins MCC Title”

Mike Craig fired a final round 78 to capture the MCC championship with rounds of 72, 78, 75, and 78. John Robinson Jr. was second, scoring a final round of 75 for 307.

Ed Schmidt was third with a total of 313 while John Daugherty was fourth with 316. Placing fifth was Bob Hill, Jr. at 318

1983 August 29 “Craig Team Nabs MCC Fall Festival”

The team of Mike Craig, Frank Remis, Mike Long, and Lynn Davis rallied from three strokes down to capture first place honors in the men’s Fall Festival Sunday at the MCC.

The Craig team had been in second place following Saturday’s first round but came back with a 5-under 149 for a 301 total and the win. The team of George Foster, Rob Garwood, Rick Stewart and Ken Grissom finished as runners-up with a 299 total. There was tie for third between the teams of Al Moffatt, Bob Haney, Dr. Ray McKinney and Rick Stark, and the team of Jack Doan, Jim Hill, John Finley III, and Phil Follis.

Bob Haney captured individual honors scoring 85 points to finish at 13-under par. Stewart was second at 83, while Long and Bill Melton tied for third. Marshall Smith, Saturday’s first round leader slumped to fifth with an 81.

1983 September 11 “Ladies Golf”

Last week’s scramble team winners with handicap scores were the foursome of Faye Berentz, Jean Ann Blue, Billie Pace, and Pattye Moores. The pairings for Wednesday’s play for points follow:

18-hole—8 a.m. Rosemary Womastek, Gail Beck, Claire Oliver, Pat Platt; Barbara Shouse Evelyn Hatfield, Helen Moore, Ruie Lucas; Ann Chancellor, Fern Toye, Billie Pace, LaVern Munson; Beverly Jackson, Ruth Heyburn, Geneva Ramsey, Melba Cordell; Lavon Young, Pauline Taylor, Millie Burford, Noma Newman; Faye Berentz, Jean Ann Blue, Pattye Moores, Yvonne Temple; Virginia Sapp, Jan Follis.

9-hole (play on back 9)

8a.m.  Imogene Clay, Betty Robeson, Jean Phillips; Carol Jones, Aileen Bradshaw, Billie Neal; Lottie Mae Russell, Jerry Ramsay, Dorothy Hester.

Afternoon pairings—Marj Grayson, DeDe Martin, Sue Riley, Mary Haney, Nadine Paul, Candy Couch, Marilyn Hill, Judy Long, Carla Rollar, Judy Kemper, Judy Grissom, Ann Foster, Nora Coleman.

1983 September 19 “Haldeman Wins Horserace”

Winning a pitchoff on the final hole against Bob Hill, Jim Haldeman won the final men’s horserace of the season at MCC Sunday evening. Dr. W.D. Jackson finished third, with John Robinson Jr. taking fourth.

Rounding out the field were Dr. W.D. Neel, John Daugherty, Cy Elmburg, Marshall Smith, Don cherry and Mike Craig.

1983 September 26 “Ace Keys MCC Event”

The team of Bob Hill, Jr., John Kerr, Dr. Pat Kragt, and Roy Chancellor captured top honors in a fall four-man scramble Sunday with a team score of 61.

The highlight of the event, though, was a hole-in-one by John Becker, Sr. on the par 3, 186-yard No. 17 with a 6-iron. His teammates—Steve Sly, Rob Garwood and Don Giles—were the witnesses. They finished eighth.

Winning second in a pitchoff at 62 were Dr. W.D. Jackson, Jim Rutter, Rick Stark, and Rob Kimbrough. Taking third, also at 62, was the team of John Robinson Jr., Joe Weatherford, Tim Eatman, and Ben Owens. Fourth with a 63 was the team of Ed Schmidt, Jim Williams, Mike Glasman, and Harold Hopkins.

1983 October 11 “Jackson, Harsch Nab Fall Scramble”

The team of Dr. W.D. Jackson and Bill Harsch carded a 66 to take top honors in the fall two-man scramble at MCC. There was a tie for second in the Championship flight between Dick Lillard, Dick Neel, John Daugherty, and Don Barr with 68s.  

Winners in the President’s Flight were Joe Jones and Bob Hunt with a 70. Sharing second with a 72 were the teams of Floyd Auld, Jim Williams, and the team of Bill Melton, Bob Temple.

Mike Glasman and Ray Curtis won the A Flight with a round of 68. Placing second with a 71 were Jeff Parrott and Rex Painter. David Scruggs and Rich Trolinger teamed up to take third with a 73.

Taking honors in the B Flight with a 77 was the team of Phil Follis and Ronnie Schliep. Mike Couch and Jim Couch were second at 78.

 

 

 Over the decades these ladies made a significant contribution to all junior golfers in Ottawa County. We all say thank you and hope it is never to late to say that. (The original picture of the list of ladies who passed away over a 40 year period can be found at the Dobson Museum in Miami.)