SPORTS

Van Fossen strolls to historic victory

Brandon Hannahs Staff Writer

ZANESVILLE – Dylan Van Fossen felt little pressure from the field during the final weekend of the Zanesville District Golf Association Amateur.

The John Glenn junior led by five strokes entering Sunday’s final round and won by the same amount after shooting a 3-over 75 at the par-72 Zanesville Country Club.

The 16-year-old totaled 290 during the four-round event to become the youngest champion in the tournament’s history.

Sean Thomas finished second posting a final round 73 and a four-round total of 295.

The round was even more special for Van Fossen, as his father, Brian, carried the bag.

“It’s actually the first tournament my dad’s been my caddy,” he said. “I didn’t expect to win, but seeing all the past champions and the great players in the field, I feel very fortunate. It’s a huge honor.”

Staying aggressive was part of Van Fossen’s plan. He overcame a double bogey on the par-4 second hole and made the turn at 3-over after a birdie on the par-3 eighth.

He also made birdies on the par-4 11th and par-5 13th to pad an already comfortable lead.

“I came out trying to make birdies, and it ended up being good enough,” Van Fossen said. “I putted well and my golf swing has really come around.”

There will be little rest for Van Fossen, as the high school season starts Monday. The summer has boosted the junior’s confidence.

“I’ve been driving the ball well and putting shots in good spots,” he said. “I need to continue what I’ve been doing.”

J.J. Mickey and Joe Lemon tied for third with 301, Brad Baker shot a 73 to finish fifth with 303, while the rest of the top 10 included Rich Bubenchik and Austin Lang at 305, Ryan Harmon and Zack Forker at 306 and Nate Seekatz at 309.

Van Fossen also won his age group, 25-and-under, of the Mid-Amateur, which is scores through 54 holes. Mickey claimed the 25-34 age group, Seekatz was first in 35-44, and Lemon won 45 and over.

• The ZDGA Senior Amateur will be Aug. 15-16 and 22 at Vista, EagleSticks and Zanesville Country Club.

The event is for men ages 50 and older, and the top five finishers in each flight after the first two rounds advance to the final round.

Deadline is Aug. 12. Cost is $75. No cash will be accepted, as players can pay online at www.zdga.org or mail checks or money orders to ZDGA, P.O. Box 2453, Zanesville, 43702.

bhannahs@zanesvilletimesrecorder.com

740-450-6763.

Twitter: @brandonhannahs