Braving fierce winds and raw temperatures, 14 die-hard golfers played for pride and industry bragging rights on the Bayonet golf course in Monterey to kick off the Bicycle Leadership Conference.
Players agreed that some of the holes played well over their par as shots were pummeled by gusty winds. Local Ned Hogan said the Monterey peninsula is known for windy conditions but it blew harder today than he’s ever experienced on a local course.
Still, as always, the game delivered plenty of drama and enough success to keep players coming back for more. Jeremy Arnold of Boulder Sports Research finished the day with a dramatic 110-yard shot that found its way into the hole for a birdie 4.
IMBA’s Rich Cook, BRAIN’s Megan Tompkins, Interbike’s Andy Tompkins and Raleigh’s Steve Meineke look more appropriately dressed for a winter hike than a golf match, except for the spikes on their shoes.
Bikes Belong’s Tim Blumenthal was understanding of the group behind him hitting onto their green, even as Rich Cook dropped a 4 iron to 18 feet, 4 ¾ inches for the closest to the pin award. But the golf gods were less understanding as that group was unable to convert that putt for a birdie.
Felt’s Michael Forte, Downeast Bicycle’s Doug Moore, Tim Blumenthal, Andy Tompkins, Rich Cook and Steve Meineke enjoy a hard day’s work.
Organizer Ray Keener was stunned by local ringer Ned Hogan who led his team comprised of IMBA’s Jenn Dice and Ritchey’s Steve Parke to a victory with a score of 2 under par for a 70.
