Busy summer sports season includes amateur golf championship, Chestnut Ridge tennis tournament

Registration underway for inaugural tennis competition and fourth annual golf tourney

Erie County Executive Mark C. Poloncarz and Commissioner of Parks, Recreation & Forestry Troy P. Schinzel are reminding residents registration is now underway for two events scheduled for next month, both of which will be held at county-owned facilities.

The fourth annual Erie County Amateur Golf Championships are scheduled to take place Aug. 22-23 at Elma Meadows Golf Course. The 36-hole competition will feature play governed by the Rules of Golf of the United States Golf Association and overseen by officials, staff and members of the Western New York PGA.

"We are excited to once again host the Erie County Amateur Championships and expect to build upon the past three years' success for what is a highly competitive event," Schinzel said. "We are proud of our strong relationship with the Western New York PGA and appreciate their assistance in partnering with Erie County to coordinate the tournament."

Handicap requirements from the championships allow a maximum handicap of 12 for men and 20 for women. All golfers must provide proof of a verifiable and valid USGA handicap index, or have a PGA professional verify their ability in writing. In the event of a tie or ties for champion in either the men's or women's divisions, as it happened two years ago, a sudden death playoff with determine the champion.

During the tournament, players will have the choice between using a cart or a caddie, but will not be able to use both during play. Players who do not have caddies will be permitted to walk, as well, if they so desire.

The cost of entry is $65, which includes first day course, entrance fee and PGA administrative fees. The second round course fee of $24 will be due prior to starting the second round of play. Registration and payments must be received at the WNYPGA section office by Aug. 12.

One of the other highlights of Erie County's busy summer sports season will be the first Chestnut Ridge Summer Classic Tennis Tournament, set to take place Aug. 27-30. The tourney, to be hosted in cooperation with the Chestnut Ridge Conservancy, will be open to men and women of all ages and various skill levels in singles and doubles competition, as well as mixed-doubles play.

"We are pleased to be partnering with our friends from The Chestnut Ridge Conservancy in hosting what we hope becomes an annual event at Chestnut Ridge Park," Schinzel said. "The tournament will be a great way for our department to showcase our renovated tennis courts, which, thanks to a recent capital improvement project, were completed resurfaced, repaired and painted, and fitted with new hardware, nets and posts. Highlighting one of the many great features of that park will also allow participants and spectators opportunities to explore over 1,200 acres of property that can be used for a variety of outdoor activities year-round."

Each competitor is guaranteed two matches, with trophies to be awarded to the first- and second-place finishers in each category. The cost for entry is $20 for singles competitors and $10 for doubles players. Registration forms and payment must be submitted by Aug. 21.

For more information on the Erie County Amateur Golf Championships, visit http://www2.erie.gov/parks/index.php?q=2015-erie-county-amateur-championships or call the WNYPGA section office at 716-626-7095.

For more information on Chestnut Ridge Summer Classic Tennis Tournament, visit www.chestnutridgeconservancy.org or email Tim Sands at [email protected].