Lewiston, MI--Here's what's buzzing around the press tent on the eve of the 2012 25th anniversary tournament.
1. Will three-time MVP winners Jon Vos and Dirk Van Zee challenge for a record fourth Stroke Saver trophy?
2. Will the spirit of 25th anniversary held at Garland generate another hole-in-one?
3. How will the rookies fair? Will Ken Klunder, Dan Rosema, Owen Tanis, and Sam Vos crumble under the weight of tournament conditions or will the vy for the MVP title as Kyle Vander Wal did in his rookie year?
4. How will the three-generation team of Owen Tanis, Jeff Tanis, and Dave Tanis do this year? This is the first time in tournament history when three generations have attended the event--fitting it happens in the tournament's 25th year.
5. With Team Grand Haven vs. Team World matches knotted at 6-6-1, which team will break the tie? Which team will hold the coveted 1-win advantage and take home the Senior Cup?
6. How will the true seniors--Dave Tanis, Rodg Rice, Phil Vandenberge, and Dick Anema--sporting an average age of 104 and a combined age of 562 hold up? They say they've got 36/day in the bag but will oxygen and wheel chairs need to be provided somewhere on the back 9 of the day's second 18?
7. Speaking of the seniors, Villa 3 remains a huge concern for the executive team. Will its occupants make their morning tee times and will a colon-blow be required prior?
8. What medicines and pain relievers will docs Mulder, Stuk and Tanis bring in their magic packs? Will Mulder's magic cream re-surface again? And, where is it all going?
9. Will Garland shine as of old and how will the players respond to her charms? Will they torch the Monarch or will it rule with an iron fist as of old?
10. How will the returning players do? Will the games of Warners, Van Hall, Anema, Tanis, Vandenberge--all names synonymous with the tournament--pick up where they left off?
11. Have the legendary bald eagles returned, and on which hole are they nesting?
Thursday, May 31, 2012
Tuesday, May 29, 2012
The Ace: Still Sweet Eighteen Years Later
Lewiston, MI--On the eve of the 25th anniversary tournament it is good, fitting, and right to remember the only recorded hole-in-one in the history of the James E.Vos, Sr. Memorial Invitational recorded by none other than tournament co-founder and namesake, James E. Vos, Sr. on the Reflections Course at Garland.
Senior, as he was fondly known, is no longer with us, but the rest of his foursome on that famous day: Dan Vander Wal, son Jack, and Rodger Rice, remain and will return to the site this year to relive and remember.
The tournament executive committee asked the remaining three from that legendary day to remember what they could of the details surrounding The Ace. Here is the recounting of it in their own words.
"I remember the day and the hole," says Rodger Rice. "I believe Senior tee'd off last. I believe, also, that Dan and I had already tee'd off. Dan, I think, was on the green but I had duffed one halfway to the hole. I was brumming to myself when Senior tee'd off (and I think Jack had already tee'd off too). I did not expect Senior to make an ace. It's a tough hole just to hit the green without going in a bunker because the green is ringed with bunkers. But Senior, with his trusty 7 wood hit his ball straight at the pin."
Adds Jack, "Came in alittle left to right, rolled 8-10 feet, we all watched, net 0 on card."
Rice continues: "I remember his ball hit quite far in front of the green (where a tongue of the putting surface juts forward between two huge bunkers). The ball just kept rolling for several feet until in gently hit the pin and plunked in. We were all astounded. There was silence for several seconds and then an group cheer. I don't recall what Senior said after. It might have been something about the shot being a stroke saver. But that's not for sure. Of course, we all had to go to the green and peer in the hole just to make sure what we thought happened really happened. So let's say the feelings included 'incredible' and 'can you believe what we just saw?' and 'amazing reault' and many other feelings and thoughts."
So there you have it folks. Eighteen years ago this year the only ever recorded ace in the history of the tournament. The year was 1994. The course was Reflections. Fittingly, the man was the one, the only, James E. Vos, Sr.
Sadly, the scorecard for this most famous hole-in-one has never been found. Thankfully, the memories remain.
Senior, as he was fondly known, is no longer with us, but the rest of his foursome on that famous day: Dan Vander Wal, son Jack, and Rodger Rice, remain and will return to the site this year to relive and remember.
The tournament executive committee asked the remaining three from that legendary day to remember what they could of the details surrounding The Ace. Here is the recounting of it in their own words.
.jpg) |
| Reflections #16 - As Senior Vos would have stared down it's 158 yards from the white tees |
 |
| Reflections #16 green, side view from the left |
Rice continues: "I remember his ball hit quite far in front of the green (where a tongue of the putting surface juts forward between two huge bunkers). The ball just kept rolling for several feet until in gently hit the pin and plunked in. We were all astounded. There was silence for several seconds and then an group cheer. I don't recall what Senior said after. It might have been something about the shot being a stroke saver. But that's not for sure. Of course, we all had to go to the green and peer in the hole just to make sure what we thought happened really happened. So let's say the feelings included 'incredible' and 'can you believe what we just saw?' and 'amazing reault' and many other feelings and thoughts."
So there you have it folks. Eighteen years ago this year the only ever recorded ace in the history of the tournament. The year was 1994. The course was Reflections. Fittingly, the man was the one, the only, James E. Vos, Sr.
Sadly, the scorecard for this most famous hole-in-one has never been found. Thankfully, the memories remain.
Saturday, June 2 Travel and Golf Plans Set
Lewiston, MI--Golf and travel plans are set for Saturday's pre-tournament rounds. Eleven participants will play 36 holes at Garland with an additional nine joining in the afternoon. Five participants are not playing Garland on Saturday--either slaving away downstate or choosing to play somewhere else on the way north. Three are undecided. Here is the final list.
Garland - All Day
Rice, Mark
Anema, Thom
Vos, Jack
Vos, Sam
Vander Wal, Dan
Vander Wal, Kyle
Van Zee, Don
Grek, Chris
Stuk, Jeff
Elenbaas, Steve
Vroon, Tony
Garland - Afternoon Only
Rice, Rodger
Anema, Dick
Vandenberge, Mark
Van Hall, Brian
Vandenberge, Phil
Topliff, John
Baker, Jim
Mulder, John
Rosema, Dan
AWOL
Klunder, Ken
Tanis, Dave
Tanis, Jeff
Tanis, Owen
Terpstra, Ken
Undecided
Warners, Jim
Warners, Bob
Vos, Jon
Securing pre-tounament tee times was more difficult this year because the "warm-up" day occurs on a Saturday instead of the typical Wednesday when most northern courses are fairly open. Tee times were secured, however. The All day-ers are scheduled with this rotation:
9:30am-9:50am - Swampfire
2:00pm-2:20pm - Reflections
The afternoon-only participants:
1:30pm-1:50pm - Monarch
Cost is $45 for the first round and $35 replay rate. Arrangements are being made through Garland to have these directly billed to your individual accounts.
Garland - All Day
Rice, Mark
Anema, Thom
Vos, Jack
Vos, Sam
Vander Wal, Dan
Vander Wal, Kyle
Van Zee, Don
Grek, Chris
Stuk, Jeff
Elenbaas, Steve
Vroon, Tony
Garland - Afternoon Only
Rice, Rodger
Anema, Dick
Vandenberge, Mark
Van Hall, Brian
Vandenberge, Phil
Topliff, John
Baker, Jim
Mulder, John
Rosema, Dan
AWOL
Klunder, Ken
Tanis, Dave
Tanis, Jeff
Tanis, Owen
Terpstra, Ken
Undecided
Warners, Jim
Warners, Bob
Vos, Jon
Securing pre-tounament tee times was more difficult this year because the "warm-up" day occurs on a Saturday instead of the typical Wednesday when most northern courses are fairly open. Tee times were secured, however. The All day-ers are scheduled with this rotation:
9:30am-9:50am - Swampfire
2:00pm-2:20pm - Reflections
The afternoon-only participants:
1:30pm-1:50pm - Monarch
Cost is $45 for the first round and $35 replay rate. Arrangements are being made through Garland to have these directly billed to your individual accounts.
Monday, May 28, 2012
Garland--A Trip Down Memory Lane
Lewiston, MI--The James E. Vos, Sr. Memorial Invitational and its history will be forever linked to Garland Lodge and Resort. With the 2012 staging, the grand resort has hosted the tournament a record nine different times in its twenty-five year history beginning in 1992 including six consecutive: from 1992 to 1997, followed by a two-year stint in 2002-03 before returning again this year.
There has always been something very special about Garland. Its courses, while decent in their own right, are not preferred by the tournament participants over the likes of Treetops, Boyne, or even Shanty Creek. It is, however, the whole package that consistently ranks Garland as the tournament's perennial favorite. It is the people, the service, the grand log lodge (largest built east of the Mississippi), the ambiance, the food, four courses all at one's doorstep, and the fact that literally everything is within walking distance. Upon arriving, one parks their car, drops off their clubs, and never needs worry about them until departure.
The tournament actually played its first round at Garland in only its second year of existence: 1989, at the early stages of the Michigan golf boom and when Garland's courses were vastly different from what we know today. That tournament was hosted at Treetops (then called, Sylvan Resort) and only the Jones course existed then. The 1989 tournament consisted of 36 holes on day one at Garland East and then Michaywe Lakes--brand new at the time--followed by the 18 hole finale at the Treetops Jones course--only three years old in 1989.
In 1989 Garland boasted an East and West course along with a 9-holer called Herman's Nine. The East was actually a hybrid of what is now Monarch and Swampfire and, if one knows the original routing, could still be played in that order. Monarch holes 1-6 and 16-18 made up the front nine of the East Course and Swampfire holes 1-3 and 13-18 made up the back nine. An original East scorecard is below. Those of you who have been to Garland before may be able to envision this original routing.
Garland and its courses have been instrumental in forging the legacy that has become the James E. Vos, Sr. Memorial Invitational, and each course carries its own memories, some of which will be reanacted for the 25th anniversary.
Thom Anema may be asked to return to #1 Monarch and replay the events leading to seven consecutive 3-wood shots in the water fronting #1 green until the eighth finally cleared. Ask Rodg Rice on precisely what tree on Swampfire #14 he bludgeoned his putter into oblivion requiring an emergency purchase in the Garland pro shop. And, we'll all have the opportunity to duplicate James E. Vos, Sr's legendary ace on Reflections #16.
And memories abound beyond the golf course. Be sure and ask Steve Elenbaas about his experience with a freshly lit cigar on the veranda overlooking the putting green one evening. Ask Jack Vos about his strategic notes to his players the night before the singles matches, and inquire with Jim Warners about "peaking." You will for sure get a story and a chuckle.
Six days to go. Welcome home, friends.
There has always been something very special about Garland. Its courses, while decent in their own right, are not preferred by the tournament participants over the likes of Treetops, Boyne, or even Shanty Creek. It is, however, the whole package that consistently ranks Garland as the tournament's perennial favorite. It is the people, the service, the grand log lodge (largest built east of the Mississippi), the ambiance, the food, four courses all at one's doorstep, and the fact that literally everything is within walking distance. Upon arriving, one parks their car, drops off their clubs, and never needs worry about them until departure.
The tournament actually played its first round at Garland in only its second year of existence: 1989, at the early stages of the Michigan golf boom and when Garland's courses were vastly different from what we know today. That tournament was hosted at Treetops (then called, Sylvan Resort) and only the Jones course existed then. The 1989 tournament consisted of 36 holes on day one at Garland East and then Michaywe Lakes--brand new at the time--followed by the 18 hole finale at the Treetops Jones course--only three years old in 1989.
In 1989 Garland boasted an East and West course along with a 9-holer called Herman's Nine. The East was actually a hybrid of what is now Monarch and Swampfire and, if one knows the original routing, could still be played in that order. Monarch holes 1-6 and 16-18 made up the front nine of the East Course and Swampfire holes 1-3 and 13-18 made up the back nine. An original East scorecard is below. Those of you who have been to Garland before may be able to envision this original routing.
Garland and its courses have been instrumental in forging the legacy that has become the James E. Vos, Sr. Memorial Invitational, and each course carries its own memories, some of which will be reanacted for the 25th anniversary.
Thom Anema may be asked to return to #1 Monarch and replay the events leading to seven consecutive 3-wood shots in the water fronting #1 green until the eighth finally cleared. Ask Rodg Rice on precisely what tree on Swampfire #14 he bludgeoned his putter into oblivion requiring an emergency purchase in the Garland pro shop. And, we'll all have the opportunity to duplicate James E. Vos, Sr's legendary ace on Reflections #16.
And memories abound beyond the golf course. Be sure and ask Steve Elenbaas about his experience with a freshly lit cigar on the veranda overlooking the putting green one evening. Ask Jack Vos about his strategic notes to his players the night before the singles matches, and inquire with Jim Warners about "peaking." You will for sure get a story and a chuckle.
Six days to go. Welcome home, friends.
Sunday, May 27, 2012
Let the Games Begin--2012 Tournament Pairings
Lewiston, MI--The James E. Vos, Sr. Memorial Invitational executive committee today announced the final pairings for the 25th anniversary tournament to be held next week Sunday through Tuesday, June 2-5 at Garland Lodge and Resort.
Creating tournament pairings is usually reserved for the night before each day's play. Doing this (selected by lot) creates anticipation and excitement for the next day's pairings. It does, however, take up considerable time. Because of the record number of participants for the 25th anniversary event (28), the executive committee agreed it would be necessary to create and and publish the tournament pairings in advance in order to save time each evening, create some unique pairings (e.g. family's playing together), and ensure participants play with as many other participants as possible.
Even with a group of twenty-eight it is impossible to eliminate any doubling-up of people playing together multiple times. The executive committee's pairings ensures this has been minimized, however. Only eleven participants play with or against the same person twice.
The executive committee did agree, however, that Monday's singles matches would be selected by lot on Monday evening--on the eve of the singles matches.
Herewith, the pairings. Morning tee times begin at 7:30am Sunday and Monday are are spaced ten minutes apart. Afternoon tee times begin at 1:30pm and are also spaced ten minutes apart.
A full spreadsheet with each pairing and specific tee times will be emailed to all participants later this week.
In related news, and in keeping with tradition, Team Grand Haven will be the Recovery Shots team for the duration of the tournament. Team World will be the Fairway Finders. For those new to the tournament, these long held team names derive from beloved and oft-repeated phrases spoken by the tournament's namesake, James E. Vos, Sr.
Sunday, June 3 - Monarch course, morning round (match play)
Recovery Shots vs. Fairway Finders
1. Brian Van Hall/Don VanZee vs. Tony Vroon/Dave Tanis
2. Jack Vos/Sam Vos vs. Dan VanderWal/Kyle VanderWal
3. Ken Terpstra/Steve Elenbaas vs. Thom Anema/Dick Anema
4. Jon Vos/Jeff Stuk vs. Ken Klunder/John Topliff
5. Jim Warners/Bob Warners vs. Mark Vandenberge/Phil Vandenberge
6. Dan Rosema/Chris Grek vs. Jeff Tanis/Owen Tanis
7. John Mulder/Jim Baker vs. Rodg Rice/Mark Rice
Sunday, June 3 - Swampfire course, afternoon round (stroke play)
Recovery Shots vs. Fairway Finders
1. Sam Vos/Jon Vos vs. Tony Vroon/John Topliff
2. Don Van Zee/Jim Warners vs. Dan VanderWal/Dick Anema
3. Dan Rosema/Jack Vos vs. Thom Anema/Mark Vandenberge
4. Bob Warners/Brian Van Hall vs. Dave Tanis/Owen Tanis
5. John Mulder/Chris Grek vs. Phil Vandenberge/Jeff Tanis
6. Jim Baker/Steve Elenbaas vs. Mark Rice/Kyle VanderWal
7. Jeff Stuk/Ken Terpstra vs. Ken Klunder/Rodg Rice
Monday, June 4 - Swampfire course, morning round (match play)
Recovery Shots vs. Fairway Finders
1. Dirk VanZee/Jack Vos vs. Mark Vandenberge/Jeff Tanis
2. Chris Grek/Jim Baker vs. Dick Anema/Phil Vandenberge
3. John Mulder/Dan Rosema vs. John Topliff/Mark Rice
4. Brian Van Hall/Ken Terpstra vs. Dan VanderWal/Ken Klunder
5. Jim Warners/Jon Vos vs. Dave Tanis/Rodg Rice
6. Sam Vos/Jeff Stuk vs. Thom Anema/Tony Vroon
7. Don Van Zee/Bob Warners vs. Owen Tanis/Kyle VanderWal
Monday, June 4 - Reflections course, afternoon round (scramble)
Recover Shots vs. Fairway Finders
1. Jon Vos/Dirk VanZee vs. Dan Vander Wal/Mark Rice
2. Ken Terpstra/Dan Rosema vs. Phil Vandenberge/Dave Tanis
3. Jack Vos/John Mulder vs. Dick Anema/Rodg Rice
4. Jeff Stuk/Jim Baker vs. Owen Tanis/Mark Vandenberge
5. Sam Vos/Don Van Zee vs. Thom Anema/Kyle VanderWal
6. Brian Van Hall/Jim Warners vs. John Topliff/Jeff Tanis
7. Bob Warners/Chris Grek vs. Ken Klunder/Tony Vroon
Creating tournament pairings is usually reserved for the night before each day's play. Doing this (selected by lot) creates anticipation and excitement for the next day's pairings. It does, however, take up considerable time. Because of the record number of participants for the 25th anniversary event (28), the executive committee agreed it would be necessary to create and and publish the tournament pairings in advance in order to save time each evening, create some unique pairings (e.g. family's playing together), and ensure participants play with as many other participants as possible.
Even with a group of twenty-eight it is impossible to eliminate any doubling-up of people playing together multiple times. The executive committee's pairings ensures this has been minimized, however. Only eleven participants play with or against the same person twice.
The executive committee did agree, however, that Monday's singles matches would be selected by lot on Monday evening--on the eve of the singles matches.
Herewith, the pairings. Morning tee times begin at 7:30am Sunday and Monday are are spaced ten minutes apart. Afternoon tee times begin at 1:30pm and are also spaced ten minutes apart.
A full spreadsheet with each pairing and specific tee times will be emailed to all participants later this week.
In related news, and in keeping with tradition, Team Grand Haven will be the Recovery Shots team for the duration of the tournament. Team World will be the Fairway Finders. For those new to the tournament, these long held team names derive from beloved and oft-repeated phrases spoken by the tournament's namesake, James E. Vos, Sr.
Sunday, June 3 - Monarch course, morning round (match play)
Recovery Shots vs. Fairway Finders
1. Brian Van Hall/Don VanZee vs. Tony Vroon/Dave Tanis
2. Jack Vos/Sam Vos vs. Dan VanderWal/Kyle VanderWal
3. Ken Terpstra/Steve Elenbaas vs. Thom Anema/Dick Anema
4. Jon Vos/Jeff Stuk vs. Ken Klunder/John Topliff
5. Jim Warners/Bob Warners vs. Mark Vandenberge/Phil Vandenberge
6. Dan Rosema/Chris Grek vs. Jeff Tanis/Owen Tanis
7. John Mulder/Jim Baker vs. Rodg Rice/Mark Rice
Sunday, June 3 - Swampfire course, afternoon round (stroke play)
Recovery Shots vs. Fairway Finders
1. Sam Vos/Jon Vos vs. Tony Vroon/John Topliff
2. Don Van Zee/Jim Warners vs. Dan VanderWal/Dick Anema
3. Dan Rosema/Jack Vos vs. Thom Anema/Mark Vandenberge
4. Bob Warners/Brian Van Hall vs. Dave Tanis/Owen Tanis
5. John Mulder/Chris Grek vs. Phil Vandenberge/Jeff Tanis
6. Jim Baker/Steve Elenbaas vs. Mark Rice/Kyle VanderWal
7. Jeff Stuk/Ken Terpstra vs. Ken Klunder/Rodg Rice
Monday, June 4 - Swampfire course, morning round (match play)
Recovery Shots vs. Fairway Finders
1. Dirk VanZee/Jack Vos vs. Mark Vandenberge/Jeff Tanis
2. Chris Grek/Jim Baker vs. Dick Anema/Phil Vandenberge
3. John Mulder/Dan Rosema vs. John Topliff/Mark Rice
4. Brian Van Hall/Ken Terpstra vs. Dan VanderWal/Ken Klunder
5. Jim Warners/Jon Vos vs. Dave Tanis/Rodg Rice
6. Sam Vos/Jeff Stuk vs. Thom Anema/Tony Vroon
7. Don Van Zee/Bob Warners vs. Owen Tanis/Kyle VanderWal
Monday, June 4 - Reflections course, afternoon round (scramble)
Recover Shots vs. Fairway Finders
1. Jon Vos/Dirk VanZee vs. Dan Vander Wal/Mark Rice
2. Ken Terpstra/Dan Rosema vs. Phil Vandenberge/Dave Tanis
3. Jack Vos/John Mulder vs. Dick Anema/Rodg Rice
4. Jeff Stuk/Jim Baker vs. Owen Tanis/Mark Vandenberge
5. Sam Vos/Don Van Zee vs. Thom Anema/Kyle VanderWal
6. Brian Van Hall/Jim Warners vs. John Topliff/Jeff Tanis
7. Bob Warners/Chris Grek vs. Ken Klunder/Tony Vroon
Wednesday, May 23, 2012
2012 Tournament Handicaps Posted
Lewiston, MI--The James E. Vos Memorial Invitational executive committee today announced the starting handicap indexes and tee box determinations for its field of twenty-eight.
Leading the field with an index of an astounding -5 from the blue tees is last year's "bridesmaid," Don "Dynamite" Van Zee. The 2008 MVP, Van Zee shot rounds of 76-75-79-81 on the Cedar River and Legend courses at Shanty Creek, lowered his handicap by four full strokes, and yet failed to win the coveted Stroke Saver MVP award. As luck would have it, the majority of his matches failed to fall in his favor sending his 2011 competitive record to 2-3 despite his 78 average score for the tournament. Van Zee was by the far the biggest handicap index mover of the group.
Right behind the senior Van Zee, team Vander Wal--son Kyle and father Dan--are just a stroke back at -6 apiece. Always a threat to go low, both began last year's tournament at -7 and managed strong consistent scores no lower than 77, no higher than 82. The Vander Wal's will once again be a force to be recognized in 2012, especially with the senior VanderWal's replacement hip fully functioning.
Right on their heels are the remaining non-rookie single-digits: the younger Van Zee and three-time MVP Dirk (-6), three-time MVP Jon Vos (-8), and 1995 MVP Mark Rice (-9). The always consistent Vos started the 2011 tournament -9, going to -8 with scores of 79-84-84. His last day singles match in 2011 was reduced to 9 holes and not recorded for handicap purposes. Returning after a five year absence, Dirk Van Zee's -6 is based on the scores he shot the last time he participated in the tournament (2007). The competition committee welcomes him back and hopes he can sustain his blistering play five years later. The perpetually inconsistent Mark Rice had his handicap inch up one stroke from -8 to -9 due to three strong scores in 2011 and one forgettable one: 77-81-92-81.
No one from the 2011 tournament moved their handicap index more than +/- 1 in either direction other than Van Zee who's index fell by a mammoth +4 strokes going from -9 to -5 heading into the 2012 tournament.
Rookie handicaps are always estimated and then adjusted immediately following the first round. All other participant handicaps are adjusted after each day's play and based on that day's scores. This year's crop of rookies make an interesting set of handicap indexes beginning with young Sam Vos at -7. Vos played on his high school team and is currently playing at a collegiate level. Can his game hold up to the intensity of The Invitational's 25th anniversary? Little is known about the games of Ken Klunder (-10) and Dan Rosema (-12) but they are rumored to be "players" who know a little something about the pressures of competition. We shall see. The most dangerous rookie of the group could be Owen Tanis sporting a -22. Length is not an issue for the young Tanis and his game has the potential for going low as well as going high. He is one of those young guns that could take the -22 and run.
Indexes are below. Tees indicate tee played in 2011 tournament to achieve current handicap index. As mentioned earlier, rookie handicaps are estimates as are the tees from which they will play.
Name, Tee, Index
Dick Anema, white, -26
Thom Anema, blue, -12
Jim Baker, blue, -15
Steve Elenbaas, blue, -18
Chris Grek, white, -12
Ken Klunder, blue, -10 (rookie)
John Mulder, white, -19
Mark Rice, blue, -9
Rodg Rice, white, -20
Dan Rosema, blue, -12 (rookie)
Jeff Stuk, white, -17
Dave Tanis, white, -10
Jeff Tanis, white, -10
Owen Tanis, white, -22 (rookie)
Ken Terpstra, white, -13
John Topliff, blue, -15
Mark Vandenberge, blue, -17
Phil Vandenberge, white, -20
Dan Vander Wal, blue, -6
Kyle Vander Wal, blue, -6
Brian Van Hall, blue, -10
Donovan Van Zee, blue, -5
Jack Vos, white, -17
Jon Vos, blue, -8
Sam Vos, blue, -7 (rookie)
Tony Vroon, white, -17
Bob Warners, blue, -15
Jim Warners, blue, -12
In related news the executive committee announced the tournament stroke differentials between tee boxes for both Monarch and Swampfire:
Monarch
Black-Blue: 517 yards, +/- 5 strokes
Blue-White: 392 yards, =/- 4 strokes
Swampfire
Black-Blue: 432 yards, +/- 4 strokes
Blue-White: 314 yards, +/- 3 strokes
Leading the field with an index of an astounding -5 from the blue tees is last year's "bridesmaid," Don "Dynamite" Van Zee. The 2008 MVP, Van Zee shot rounds of 76-75-79-81 on the Cedar River and Legend courses at Shanty Creek, lowered his handicap by four full strokes, and yet failed to win the coveted Stroke Saver MVP award. As luck would have it, the majority of his matches failed to fall in his favor sending his 2011 competitive record to 2-3 despite his 78 average score for the tournament. Van Zee was by the far the biggest handicap index mover of the group.
 |
| Van Zee fully turned as Grek observes the power about to be unleashed. |
Right behind the senior Van Zee, team Vander Wal--son Kyle and father Dan--are just a stroke back at -6 apiece. Always a threat to go low, both began last year's tournament at -7 and managed strong consistent scores no lower than 77, no higher than 82. The Vander Wal's will once again be a force to be recognized in 2012, especially with the senior VanderWal's replacement hip fully functioning.
No one from the 2011 tournament moved their handicap index more than +/- 1 in either direction other than Van Zee who's index fell by a mammoth +4 strokes going from -9 to -5 heading into the 2012 tournament.
Rookie handicaps are always estimated and then adjusted immediately following the first round. All other participant handicaps are adjusted after each day's play and based on that day's scores. This year's crop of rookies make an interesting set of handicap indexes beginning with young Sam Vos at -7. Vos played on his high school team and is currently playing at a collegiate level. Can his game hold up to the intensity of The Invitational's 25th anniversary? Little is known about the games of Ken Klunder (-10) and Dan Rosema (-12) but they are rumored to be "players" who know a little something about the pressures of competition. We shall see. The most dangerous rookie of the group could be Owen Tanis sporting a -22. Length is not an issue for the young Tanis and his game has the potential for going low as well as going high. He is one of those young guns that could take the -22 and run.
Indexes are below. Tees indicate tee played in 2011 tournament to achieve current handicap index. As mentioned earlier, rookie handicaps are estimates as are the tees from which they will play.
Name, Tee, Index
Dick Anema, white, -26
Thom Anema, blue, -12
Jim Baker, blue, -15
Steve Elenbaas, blue, -18
Chris Grek, white, -12
Ken Klunder, blue, -10 (rookie)
John Mulder, white, -19
Mark Rice, blue, -9
Rodg Rice, white, -20
Dan Rosema, blue, -12 (rookie)
Jeff Stuk, white, -17
Dave Tanis, white, -10
Jeff Tanis, white, -10
Owen Tanis, white, -22 (rookie)
Ken Terpstra, white, -13
John Topliff, blue, -15
Mark Vandenberge, blue, -17
Phil Vandenberge, white, -20
Dan Vander Wal, blue, -6
Kyle Vander Wal, blue, -6
Brian Van Hall, blue, -10
Donovan Van Zee, blue, -5
Jack Vos, white, -17
Jon Vos, blue, -8
Sam Vos, blue, -7 (rookie)
Tony Vroon, white, -17
Bob Warners, blue, -15
Jim Warners, blue, -12
In related news the executive committee announced the tournament stroke differentials between tee boxes for both Monarch and Swampfire:
Monarch
Black-Blue: 517 yards, +/- 5 strokes
Blue-White: 392 yards, =/- 4 strokes
Swampfire
Black-Blue: 432 yards, +/- 4 strokes
Blue-White: 314 yards, +/- 3 strokes
Tuesday, May 22, 2012
2011 Images
Lewiston, MI--The 2011 trip is gone, but not forgotten. The images in our memories will remain forever. A few here demonstrate once again the special bond that is the James E. Vos Memorial Invitational. The below photos come with permission from and thanks to Dr. John Mulder.
Grand Garland
Lewiston, MI--The James E. Vos Memorial Invitational reconnaissance team spent two and a half days in northern MI last week conducting a site audit of Garland Lodge and Resort as well as other area courses. They found Garland glowing, its courses in superb shape and more the ready for the tournament's twenty-eight participants.
Of some concern had been the lodging arrangements. The 2011 tournament lodging facilities will be Garland's villas, just off the main lodge. These stand alone complexes feature two bedrooms, each with two double beds and a common room. While a tad outdated, the reconnaissance team found the villas clean and very comfortable.
While the villas do not house kitchens (like the cabins), the common room is spacious and features a gas fireplace, TV, coffeemaker, two sofas, and a small refrigerator. Built of the familiar Garland knotty pine logs, the villas also carry the legendary Garland charm.
Of some concern had been the lodging arrangements. The 2011 tournament lodging facilities will be Garland's villas, just off the main lodge. These stand alone complexes feature two bedrooms, each with two double beds and a common room. While a tad outdated, the reconnaissance team found the villas clean and very comfortable.
While the villas do not house kitchens (like the cabins), the common room is spacious and features a gas fireplace, TV, coffeemaker, two sofas, and a small refrigerator. Built of the familiar Garland knotty pine logs, the villas also carry the legendary Garland charm.
Pleasantly surprising were the villa's spacious outdoor decks complete with brand new gas grills.
And located right next to the lodge, they will provide an easy walk to breakfast each morning.
The team's tour of Swampfire and a few holes on Reflections showed the courses are in terrific shape, having opened just two weeks ago--the latest they have ever opened. The spectacular morning trip through the Swampfire course only heightened the team's anticipation for what would occur just two short weeks later, and showed the "old girl" still had some bite. There are low scores waiting to be had on Swampfire if one carefully navigates its twelve holes with forced carries and its treacherous greens, most of which are Ross-like inverted bowls.
New to the property is a 9-hole grass putting course complete with doglegs and sand traps. There is rumor of a putting contest, possibly held on the new putting course.
 |
| Swampfire #9 |
 |
| Early Dawn on Swampfire #1 |
 |
| Swampfire #6 |
 |
Early Dawn on Swampfire #2, 3rd shot |
Finally, food-wise, the Garland breakfast buffet, included in our package, is quick, yummy, and loaded with most every hot or cold breakfast goodie one could want. Lunch on the patio with the Cowboy burger and an Oberon doesn't get much better.
There are also multiple dinner options in addition to the fine dinner dining at Herman's on property. A short drive into Lewiston is Tally's Log Cabin Bar featuring the best $4 burger in the Norther Lower and Amber Boch on tap.
The trip report was received by the executive committee with thanks and appreciation for a job well-done.
Tuesday, May 15, 2012
Tee Box Policy Reminder
Lewiston, MI--Participants in the 2012 James E. Vos Memorial Invitational are reminded of the new tee box policy, newly instituted at last year's tournament.
Participants will be asked and expected to declare each evening the tees the expect to play the next day. It will be strongly encouraged for participants to declare before the tournament and no later than Saturday evening's opening ceremonies the tees they expect to play for the duration of the tournament. Players will be encouraged to play from the same set of tees the entire week. Exceptions will be made in cases where health or other extenuating circumstances make it very difficult for a player to play the next day from previously declared tees.
With the new requirements came a change in policy regarding strokes given or taken away by moving tees. Previous methodology allocated 200 yard to be equal to approximately 1 stroke. A change from blue tees to white tees of 400 yards, for example, would be a handicap change of +/- two strokes.
While a player may, in fact, take one stroke to hit a ball 200 yards, the tournament committee also recognizes 400 yards constitutes a par 4 hole on most golf courses. The new policy roughly translates into one stroke for every 100 yards and four strokes for 400 yards. The specific stroke allocation between tees for the Garland courses will be announced when handicaps are announced. That announcement is expected this weekend.
The selection of tees and the corresponding stroke allocations have been the subject of spirited debate for years among the tournaments participants. Intended to encourage participants to play from the tees from which they get the most enjoyment, and to give some golfers who's game is "between tees" the opportunity to move during the week depending on each course's length, the previous system allowed players to switch anytime before a round, requiring they either give up or receive additional strokes, depending on whether they move up or move back a set of tees.
Despite its intent, it received criticism for making it too easy for players to move up or back, and it created the opportunity for players to more easily switch during a tournament--sometimes right before a match--depending on the course length and on which tees gave them the greatest stroke advantage during a match. In some cases, a player could move up tees, gain 400-500 yards and only give up 2 strokes in their handicap.
As always, the goal is for the spirit of the game and the values the tournament's namesake embraced to remain: friendship, honor, and love of the game.
Monday, May 14, 2012
Pre-Tournament Recon
Byron Center, MI--The James E. Vos Memorial Invitational executive committee announced today they have asked executive committee member, Mark Rice, to form a small team and head north to Garland this week in order to conduct pre-tournament reconnaissance and prepare the courses for the 25th anniversary competition. Joining Rice will be Rodger Rice, Jeff Tanis, and Dave Tanis. Among the team's objectives are:
1. Survey, photography, and assessment of the Garland Villa lodging arrangements.
2. Careful course inspection of tournament courses, specifically the Monarch and Swampfire courses.
3. Inspection and trial of on-and-off-property breakfast and dinner options including beer sampling.
4. Collection of tournament scorecards.
5. Meet with Garland management for final tournament preparation details.
6. Inspection of possible private gathering room to be used as an evening post-match tournament lounge.
7. Inspection of large on-course putting green to determine feasibility of a tournament putting contest.
8. Inspection of other area golf courses as possible future tournament sites.
The foursome will leave Grand Rapids Wednesday, May 16 and return Friday evening, May 18. Rice has been asked to post a full report with photos upon his return.
1. Survey, photography, and assessment of the Garland Villa lodging arrangements.
2. Careful course inspection of tournament courses, specifically the Monarch and Swampfire courses.
3. Inspection and trial of on-and-off-property breakfast and dinner options including beer sampling.
4. Collection of tournament scorecards.
5. Meet with Garland management for final tournament preparation details.
6. Inspection of possible private gathering room to be used as an evening post-match tournament lounge.
7. Inspection of large on-course putting green to determine feasibility of a tournament putting contest.
8. Inspection of other area golf courses as possible future tournament sites.
The foursome will leave Grand Rapids Wednesday, May 16 and return Friday evening, May 18. Rice has been asked to post a full report with photos upon his return.
Sunday, May 13, 2012
25th Anniversary Tournament Shirts
Lewiston, MI--The James E. Vos Senior Memorial Invitational executive committee today revealed the 25th anniversary team shirts. Team Grand Haven will wear a blue and white striped Adidas shirt. Team World will wear a red and black striped Adidas shirt. Both shirts will carry the tournament's logo on the left chest and the "25th" insignia on the right sleeve. Participants may wear them throughout the tournament but will be required to wear them for singles match play and a tournament photo on the last day: Tuesday, June 5.
The shirts are being supplied and embroidered by Image Builders in Jenison, MI and are being partially underwritten by Dr. John Mulder. Particpants will be asked to purchase the shirt for $27, payable to the executive committee at anytime during the tournament.
The tournament executive committee wishes to express its deep gratitude to Dr. Mulder for his very generous gift.
Back to the Future
Lewiston, MI--The tournament executive committee today announced the teams for the 25th playing of the James E. Vos Senior Memorial Invitational. Harkening back to the tournament's earliest days the 2012 teams will bring the return of "Grand Haven vs. The World" with just a few slight alterations.
The tournament changed to its current Ryder Cup format in 1994 and shortly thereafter moved to a Grand Haven vs. The World team format creating a long-standing fun but intense and sometimes heated rivalry lead by captains Jack Vos (Grand Haven) and Mark Rice (World). Strategery, gamesmanship, and competitive tactics to create mismatches during this period are part of the lore and fabric of this tournament, from Captain Vos slipping encouraging notes under his team's doors at night, to last minute player announcements of moving tee boxes, to comments about certain player's games "peaking"--anything to get an edge.
The intensity erupted in 1999 at Boyne Highlands after the tournament ended in a tie for the first and only time in its history. With Team Grand Haven holding the Senior Cup after winning it in 1998, they made the understandable assumption a tie would result in their holding the trophy another year. Team World had other ideas and reminded their competitors no rules had been previously established concerning matches ending in a tie, stating that a tie should be a tie--no one holds the Cup. Emotions and frustrations boiled over. Alas, it was perhaps this intensity that drove players like Van Zee, Vos, Tanis, and Vandenberge to play on in a cold, drenching rain at The Chief in 2001 and, perhaps drove others to depart the tournament altogether.
The Grand Haven vs. The World team format would continue for six more years until 2007 when Captains Vos and Rice decided, as fun and competitive as the format had been, a change was necessary in order to restore some of the tenants of the tournament that perhaps were in danger of being lost: friendship, camaraderie, and a love of game. Most would agree the change to picking new teams each year has been necessary and successful. Most would also agree, however, there was something special about the old format and the spirited rivalry it brought.
Interestingly, in thirteen years of playing a Grand Haven vs. The World team format, the matches have ended with six wins each and a tie. With this year's return to the old format, one team finally have an edge.
This year's teams are as follows:
Team Grand Haven
Team World
The tournament changed to its current Ryder Cup format in 1994 and shortly thereafter moved to a Grand Haven vs. The World team format creating a long-standing fun but intense and sometimes heated rivalry lead by captains Jack Vos (Grand Haven) and Mark Rice (World). Strategery, gamesmanship, and competitive tactics to create mismatches during this period are part of the lore and fabric of this tournament, from Captain Vos slipping encouraging notes under his team's doors at night, to last minute player announcements of moving tee boxes, to comments about certain player's games "peaking"--anything to get an edge.
The intensity erupted in 1999 at Boyne Highlands after the tournament ended in a tie for the first and only time in its history. With Team Grand Haven holding the Senior Cup after winning it in 1998, they made the understandable assumption a tie would result in their holding the trophy another year. Team World had other ideas and reminded their competitors no rules had been previously established concerning matches ending in a tie, stating that a tie should be a tie--no one holds the Cup. Emotions and frustrations boiled over. Alas, it was perhaps this intensity that drove players like Van Zee, Vos, Tanis, and Vandenberge to play on in a cold, drenching rain at The Chief in 2001 and, perhaps drove others to depart the tournament altogether.
The Grand Haven vs. The World team format would continue for six more years until 2007 when Captains Vos and Rice decided, as fun and competitive as the format had been, a change was necessary in order to restore some of the tenants of the tournament that perhaps were in danger of being lost: friendship, camaraderie, and a love of game. Most would agree the change to picking new teams each year has been necessary and successful. Most would also agree, however, there was something special about the old format and the spirited rivalry it brought.
Interestingly, in thirteen years of playing a Grand Haven vs. The World team format, the matches have ended with six wins each and a tie. With this year's return to the old format, one team finally have an edge.
This year's teams are as follows:
Team Grand Haven
| Baker, Jim |
| Elenbaas, Steve |
| Grek, Chris |
| Mulder, John |
| Rosema, Dan |
| Stuk, Jeff |
| Terpstra, Ken |
| Van Hall, Brian |
| Van Zee, Dirk |
| Van Zee, Don |
| Vos, Jack |
| Vos, Jon |
| Vos, Sam |
| Warners, Bob |
| Warners, Jim |
Team World
| Anema, Dick |
| Anema, Thom |
| Klunder, Ken |
| Rice, Mark |
| Rice, Rodg |
| Tanis, Dave |
| Tanis, Jeff |
| Tanis, Owen |
| Topliff, John |
| Vandenberge, Mark |
| Vandenberge, Phil |
| VanderWal, Dan |
| VanderWal, Kyle |
| Vroon, Tony |
Saturday, May 5, 2012
Dirk Van Zee Joins 25th Anniversary Tournament
Garland, MI--The James E. Vos Memorial Invitational executive committee today announced the return of long-time participant and three-time MVP, Dirk Van Zee.
Dirk's invitation came shortly after the executive committee was informed that participant Steve Elenbaas would not be able to participate in this year's tournament in its entirety. Mr. Elenbaas' vacation time schedule, and other important family commitments forced him to cut his tournament participation by 3/5's. Steve and Dirk will now together fill the 28th slot with Steve playing in Sunday's matches and Dirk playing in Monday and Tuesday's matches. Steve will also participate in Saturday's pre-tournament play which is open to all but not part of the tournament package.
While the committee expresses understanding with sadness over Steve's schedule change (Steve is a long-time participant himself), it welcomes Dirk's return. Dirk has played in numerous tournaments dating back to its early years and has been the tournament's MVP or co-MVP three times, holding it solo in 1996 and sharing the honor in 2003 with Chris Grek and again in 2007 with brother-in-law, Jack Vos. 2007 was Dirk's last time in the tournament until this year.
The tournament executive committee is sympathetic to Steve and is pleased to try to oblige the inevitable schedule changes due to conflicts, which are nothing new to the tournament and are bound to occur. However, it strongly encourages all participants to commit to the tournament in its entirety at all times.
 |
| Mr. Steve Elenbaas circa 1999 |
 |
| Mr. Dirk Van Zee circa 1999 |
Dirk's invitation came shortly after the executive committee was informed that participant Steve Elenbaas would not be able to participate in this year's tournament in its entirety. Mr. Elenbaas' vacation time schedule, and other important family commitments forced him to cut his tournament participation by 3/5's. Steve and Dirk will now together fill the 28th slot with Steve playing in Sunday's matches and Dirk playing in Monday and Tuesday's matches. Steve will also participate in Saturday's pre-tournament play which is open to all but not part of the tournament package.
While the committee expresses understanding with sadness over Steve's schedule change (Steve is a long-time participant himself), it welcomes Dirk's return. Dirk has played in numerous tournaments dating back to its early years and has been the tournament's MVP or co-MVP three times, holding it solo in 1996 and sharing the honor in 2003 with Chris Grek and again in 2007 with brother-in-law, Jack Vos. 2007 was Dirk's last time in the tournament until this year.
The tournament executive committee is sympathetic to Steve and is pleased to try to oblige the inevitable schedule changes due to conflicts, which are nothing new to the tournament and are bound to occur. However, it strongly encourages all participants to commit to the tournament in its entirety at all times.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
