The Commitee has misplaced or lost photos from the 2011 Invitational, so if any WACOFFs have any pics or other items to contribute to this page,please forward to the Committee at your earliest convenience.

September 28, 2011

Gentlemen

The Committee must begin this year's wrap up with an explanation for the rather tardy appearance of same. Immediately upon the conclusion of the Twenty First, The Committee's liaison found himself on a plane to London but without the laptop computer which is a virtual appendage of the poor boy. As a result, he was cut off from his data, his thesaurus, and his ability to copy pithy phrases from others with actual writing talent. He is now reunited with his machine and is now able to meet his obligations to The Committee.

The Twenty First goes into the books as a memorable event for numerous reasons. The Thursday Committee got things off to a roaring start with a dozen early birds enjoying the splendor of Pilgrims Run followed by a night of debauchery and karaoke in some nameless Mecosta County roadhouse. Friday morning found most of the tribe sleeping it off until the main event began. Thanks to SuperLawyer Dan Bretz for the leadership on this.

The weekend attendance, at 20, was the lowest in 10 years, but numerous Wacoffs observed that the smaller number contributed to an intimacy and ability to converse and interact at a volume and pace that was comfortable, expansive and gentle. Whilst those regulars who had various excuses for non-attendance were certainly missed (at least their financial contributions), it was a veteran and able group, with no shortage of character and class.

The facilities at Tullymore were grand and spacious, reminiscent of Northport and Spider Lake. Comfortable bedrooms (with OUTSTANDING mattresses sparking unexpected and universal acclamation), spacious public areas with the usual required accoutrement' including a hot tub in which Mann and Coon took indecent liberties with the jets. The food was serviceable, although missing the deft touch of class and sophistication of Chef Holefca. Friday night at the Lodge was a hoot, with Marshal "BB" Hyman reminding everyone of the surprises awaiting those who mix their intoxicants. The boyz actually kept up a fair approximation of party animals until after the midnight hour, and that is always a heart warming sight. There seems to be unanimous consent that the Lodge at Tullymore fills the WACOFF bill, and it will undoubtedly be placed upon the permanent rota.

As usual, the Golf Committee designed and staged outstanding and invigorating competitive events. The Friday 4 Man 666 /Two Man Alternate Shot/Net Kick Ass Roller Derby Open, once everyone figured out how it was actually supposed to work, was a blast to play. Once a rhythm was established, the competitive and strategic options began to appear and multiply. Simply stated, it was a hell of a lot more fun than it looked on paper. The Bretz team (Dan, Larry Mann, John Coon and Guerriero) dominated the event, winning the overall and two of the three Nassaus. A great addition to the WACOFF competition repertoire! Tip of the Week from the Bretz Foursome: Change carts when you change partners!!

The Twenty First WACOFF Scramble Championship was played on a beautiful and challenging Tullymore course. Tullymore, in its debut appearance as a venue for the Scramble Championship was widely hailed as an outstanding test of golf, a marvelous example of the integration of golf and terrain, and a course with soul. Some complained about playing from the blacks at 7200 yds (not even the tips mind you, another 300 yds further back!) but after being sternly reminded of the true purpose and nature of the Championship, quickly realized the heresy of their views.

The Scramble Championship results were notable for several reasons. One, another (9th?) victory for the master, Paul Coughenour. Two, a first victory and appearance on the Trophy for John Coon. Three, the largest margin of victory in Scramble Championship history. Four, four of the five teams were within one stroke at the turn and all were still legitimately in the hunt. Five, a three birdie (16, 17and 18) finish. Six, and finally, perhaps the greatest collective sandbagging job in the history of the event. Nothing but stories of bad shots, lame and limping golfers, horrible breaks, ineffective A player, bad tempers and other horrors. We ought to know better by now, but Paul is a master of the sandbag. Congratulations to Team Dream (On), Paul Coughenour, Dennis Holefca, John Coon and Marshal Hyman. A -7 finish, FOUR strokes ahead of the nearest competitor.

The Deke Shoot-Out was fun for some, not so much for others it seems. Congrats to the winner. Who was that?

Saturday is followed by Sunday every year, and the individual events proceeded without participation by 20% of the field, withdrawing in favor of home, health and other pursuits. All CD players no doubt. Nevertheless, a great day and good conditions led to more surprises. Larry Mann ran away with the AB paramutuel with a serviceable 88 net 70, chased by the A flight winners, Glen and Paul at net 74s. The CD paramutuel saw Ron Hardesty shoot the best round he has had in many a year at 93 net 70, chased by C flight winner Gary V at net 72. Beautiful day, beautiful course, and not so far away from home at that.

The boys are lucky to have the opportunity to knock around with each other every year, and may it long continue. The Committee hastens to add its thanks and gratitude to the many whose efforts make this event worth attending: D. Bretz-Thursday Game. D. Hardesty-Photos, photo albums, Shirts and Bar. R. Hardesty, Shirts and Hats and other things. M. Hyman-Performance Prizes. J. Stimson-the always impressive and ever growing Wacoff Archive and the Shoot Out. P. Nielsen-The Shootout. G and J Coughenour- Parimutuel Betting. D. Holefca-Culinary Inspiration, and P. Coughenour, the God of Golf, Lord of the Links, His Highness of Handicap. We collectively thank each of you for all you do and hope that you will do it again next year.

Planning for 2012 is under way, and suggestions are welcome. Be safe and be well.

YrObtSvts
THE COMMITTEE