May 19, 2019
The first Mid American Hickory Open is in the books. Thirty-four players had a very wet, rain delayed first day. We dodged a bullet the second day, watching severe weather pass by to our north, and finished in sunshine. Thank you to the staff at Soangetaha Country Club in Galesburg, Ill. for letting us continue. You know it’s wet when your golf cart leaves a wake behind you.
In spite of the weather we had some memorable play by Bill “Ernie” Ernst winner of the Open division, George Burgland winner of the Senior, and Dan Nordstedt who won the Statesman division. The Scramble Team event was won by veteran hickory players from Des Moines, Iowa – Russ Fisher, Bill Reed, John Ausen, and John Piffer.
We welcomed eight new players to the hickory game, including two ladies. A good time was had by all, thanks to the welcoming efforts of the head pro, Kirk Hosteng, the catering staff and, of course, the bartenders. Thanks also to George Burgland, our “member” host whose contribution was essential.
Soangetaha is a great place for a hickory event. We look forward to returning in May 2020 when the club will celebrate its 125th anniversary.  The plan is for a one-day gutty event in advance of the two-day modern hickory golf outing, all in honor of the early beginnings of this fine course. Soangetaha CC was founded in 1895 and the Tom Bendelow design provides a fun and challenging round of golf. Over the years, the club has hosted 10 state championships, two national tournaments, and now a Society of Hickory Golfers event.
Completed Results:
Open Division     Champion, Bill “Ernie” Ernst 162         2nd Place, Rick Woedkener 169
Open Reserve     Champion, Jim McGraw net 151         2nd Place, Kirk Watson  net 158
Senior Division     Champion, George Burgland 158        2nd Place, Bert Coghill   161
Senior Reserve     Champion, Mark Larson net 139         2nd Place, John McKenzie net 143
Statesman         Champion, Dan Nordstedt 188          2nd Place, Peter Herrington 212
Statesman Reserve  Don Madelung
Scramble Team                      Russ Fisher, Bill Reed, John Ausen and Peter Piffer
