Vandyland

- 1997 McKinleyville Open  -

 "The Most Dramatic Open Ever"

It was only Micah's second year competing in the McKinleyville Open, yet he stole the show, but just barely. After shooting an understandable 120+ in his first Open, he shot a 93 in the '97 version, but this score didn't guarantee his victory for Josh wouldn't be done in that easily. Micah had the clear advantage going into the tournament for he had just finished playing on Florin High School's Golf Team, and although he played in only 1 of 4 tournaments, he still had many rounds and driving range appearances under his belt. Meanwhile, Josh was coming off his Open Championship and was looking to become the first player to defend the Championship. He played a few rounds leading up to the Open, but no where near as many as Micah, so Micah did hold the advantage despite only playing golf for 13 months. We will spare the minor detail( beacuse we don't have them any more ), but the 1997 McKinleyville Open came down to the last hole. Micah had been leading most fo the round, but Josh was lurking close behind at all times. Josh picked up a stroke or two on the par 3 17th which he and Micah at 89 with one to play. The tension mounted as the foursome drove a short distance to the 18th tee box. Micah led off with a stellar drive, Josh not too bad either. Unfortunately for Josh, he had trouble with his second shot while Micah didn't. Micah was on the green in three and two putted for a bogey while Josh finished with a double, just one shot off the lead. The title wouldn't be held on to this year, thanks to the second year pro Micah Van Der Kamp. NOTE: Carl finished some strokes off the lead and Greg some and then some more off the lead.