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METROPOLITAN OPEN STRIVES TO BE TOP MIDWEST EVENT
PROFESSIONALS WILL PLAY FOR $15,000 FIRST PRIZE

The 2013 version of the Metropolitan Open took some big strides in ensuring it is one of the best Open events in the Midwest.  With the help of some dedicated club members, the 8^th Open featured enhanced live scoring and on course leaderboards that rivaled tour quality venues.  Furthermore, Country Club of St. Albans members opened their homes to traveling golf professionals, giving them a place to stay during their time at St. Albans.

Top those off with the largest purse in event history and a $13,500 first place check, the Open presented by Plaza Motors took on a new face!

The 2014 version assures to have that same feel, as the Club is getting even more involved with making the experience even better for the players.  2010 and 2011 Champion Shawn Jasper recently commented on how the Open has progressed; “In just a few short years the Metropolitan Open has become one of the premiere events in the Midwest.  The membership of St. Albans has raised the bar with their leaderboards and Plaza Motors have given this open a real Tour event feel.  The Metropolitan Open is one of the most well executed events I have played in at any level of competition.”

Plaza Motors is returning as the presenting sponsor of the 9^th Metropolitan Open Championship, with their support and the support of their General Manager, and Chairman of the Championship, Jerry Patterson the purse for the championship is again increasing.  With a full field of professionals (72) first place will be $15,000 in 2014.  Patterson commented on Plaza Motors involvement in the 9^th Open, “Plaza Motors is honored to once again be the presenting sponsor of the Metropolitan Open Championship.  Not only do we have a strong affiliation with the MAGA, but Plaza Motors also has an unparalleled relationship with the Country Club of St. Albans. As a Pro-Am sponsor in the past years, we have had the privilege to observe the amazing aspects of this event. A wonderful occasion partnered with a spectacular golf association and a top-notch course; it may seem too good to be true! I would call it a ‘perfect match’!”

The Open will again kick-off on Wednesday afternoon with the Pro-Am.  This will be the third year of the Pro-Am and has become an excellent way to showcase some of the young professionals in the field and meet some of our great supporters of the Open.  Professionals play for a skins game where $1,000 will be up for grabs.

Drew Stoltz (pictured at left) came from 2-shots back on the final day to capture the title and $13,500 first prize.  The pro from Whisper Rock Golf Club (Scottsdale, AZ) would finish 1-shot ahead of Chris Thompson (Lawrence, KS) and Shawn Jasper (Boone Valley GC) to put his name on the James S. Manion Trophy.  Alex Cusumano (Metropolitan GC) would finish Low Amateur and in a tie for 14^th place.

David Derfel, General Manager at CCSA, quoted to the Club’s commitment to the Open.  “We are honored to host the 9^th Annual Metropolitan Open Championship on July 10^th-12^th at The Country Club of St. Albans. Our Lewis & Clark course, which is consistently rated in the top 10 in the State of Missouri, has become an annual stop for many of the finest amateurs and pro’s throughout the country. The continued success of this championship is a true testament to the quality of tournament golf in St. Louis and our commitment to the game. “

Championship play will commence Thursday with all competitors playing 36-holes Thursday and Friday before a cut to the Low 40 and ties is made for the Final Round Saturday.  The Championship is FREE for spectators to come out and see one of the strongest fields to tee it up in St. Louis!

If you should have any further questions please do not hesitate to contact Curt Rohe, Executive Director, via email at /Blog/387763/The-Country-Club-of-St-Albans-Gears-Up-for-9th-Open or phone at (314) 567-MAGA.

The post The Country Club of St. Albans Gears Up for 9th Open appeared first on Metropolitan Amateur Golf Association.