Your 2011 Steeplechase Fawkirk & Hotz Champions

Silver Flight Hotz Trophy Champion Robert Auld(left) with Steeplechase FAWKIRK Champion Gary Simpson

'10 Steeplechase-The Greatest Backyard Golf Tournament Ever (reposted)

It was a day of rain
It was a day of sun
It was a day for champions and the man who almost Won!

The troubling sky was not nearly enough to keep away eight men who sought to make history at the storied Steeple View Country Club. The rain drops seemed hurried as they fell, as if informed by some higher power that it was time to get a good seat to what would become the stage for the greatest backyard golf tournament of all time.

Past Steeplechase champions were there and Gary Simpson and Derek Schulz were both focused, determined and as the rest of the field was aware-very, very, good.
Rober' and Bill were there.

The Auld's-two Scotsman who took the challenge of the other contestants as a personal affront to their countryman who created the very game. Bravehearts armed with mashies and niblicks.

Tony D'anna was there. The best player in the field statistically-if only in the lesser known 18 hole version of the sport where the weapon of choice is a club headed stick known as a driver.

The good doctor Tom made the trip. His bright smile and cigar made for a Cagneyesque "yah see" drawl.

Superstar Johnny Z returned to the hallowed fields of Hunterdon in attempt to return to the form the had so much promise not that many years ago.

And finally, Mr. Jeff Dreitlein, the perennial darling boy of countless backyard golf galleries. The fan favorite with no hardware on his mantle but who's friendship is held like a trophy by those who are fortunate enough earn the title.



"The Chase" was on. And the 2010's version of the Steeple Chase Golf Championship had two trophies up for grabs-the famous Fawkirk and the brand new Hotz trophy which would go to the Silver flight champion.



Simpson would start quick, as he is known to do, scoring 2 birdies and 4 points in the first two holes en route to 1st round leading 11pts. Rober' went toe to toe with defending champ Derek in round one, scoring 6 pts-good enough for the second place tie. Bill Auld would score 5 in the opening stanza matching the score of one Jeff Dreitlein to round out the top 5. JZ and the Doctor had some troubles and could only muster 2 points each. So, who are we missing, Gary, Rober, Derek, Bill, Jeff, JZ and Tom and hold it . . .wait a second where is Tony? What no points? Is that possible? Well the best player to never win a major would have his work cut out for him.

Round 2 was highlighted by Derek's fourth "Hoop-in-one" in tournament play. The eagle gave him a 2nd round total of 10 points and a legitimate claim at the absentee Pete Johnson's nickname. Rober' stayed strong and returned to the finals with a 2 round 14pt total. G-again a finalist with 15pts as was host Bill with 11. TD scored on 4 of 9 holes in round two but they were split with others and he would be forced to join JZ and Dr. Tom in the first ever Silver Flight Hotz final.

That meant that fan favorite Jeff Dreitlein would not have a chance to play for the Hotz Trophy . . . that's because he would be in the main draw . .. he would fight to have his name inscribed on the FAWKIRK.

And what a main draw this would be. Epic. Historic. An up and down rollercoaster of emotion set on the backdrop of the rolling hills of the SVCC which were now drenched in sunlight-the rain a distant memory.





After seeing the Silver Flight combatants Johnny Z, Tony D'anna and eventual Hotz Trophy Champion Dr. Tom Lapinski set forth on their own quest, the finalists for the Fawkirk began battle. Host Bill Auld would birdie the first to gain his only lead-being shut out on the next 8 holes.

Simpson-no points on 1,2,3,4.
Derek and Rober' no points on 1 and 2.

So who was making his mark on the 2011 Steeplechase. That's right, gallery favorite and Mr. "not just content on making the finals" Dreitlein found himself the clear leader after 3 holes!! But could he hold up to the pressure- Derek would charge with a birdie #4 and Gary would follow with his own on #6. No points for Jeff during that span brought him back to the pack and tied with Derek and G with 3pts after six holes.

A nice run for Jeff but the experience of two past champions would surely make this a two man race to the finish.

and then just like that,
SMACK!!!
Yes fans, a BIRDIE has just hit the scorecard and it made Dreitlein your leader by 2 after 7 holes.

And how quickly the pressure would shift to thetwo past champions Schulz and Simpson with Rober and Bill out of contention. They would each need to shut out Dreitlein in the final two holes and score 2 of their own just to force a playoff with the man who clearly would be the story of this championship, win or lose.

And would it be called the greatest backyard tournament of all time if that wasn't what happened? Simpson would birdie # 8 forcing the defending champion to birdie #9 which he did forcing the 3 man playoff.

By rule the players would play a 3 hole aggregate score playoff on holes 4,5,6- the first ever of its kind in backyard tournament golf.



Hole #4- Gary 1pt, Derek 1pt, Jeff 0pt
Hole #5- Gary 1pt, Derek 1pt, Jeff 0pt.

For the Cinderella story to continue for one Mr. Jeff "our hero" Dreitlein he would need to a clean 2pt win on #6 to force the near unthinkable scenario of sudden death double overtime. But after 29 holes of tension filled championship golf, the glass slipper did not fit . An offline tee shot would force Jeff to leave the tournament without a Steeplechase championship. He would however leave the tournament with much more than that. He would leave having won the hearts of the backyard golf world, playing with class and poise in one of the most dynamic championships in sporting history.

Jeff's departure could have meant the juicy storyline to the 2010 Steeplechase was over. But the full story had yet to be told and the FAWKIRK was still waiting on Champions Bridge for its warrior to return.

Gary in with 2 looks to be the winner. Derek has a difficult shot to tie and force sudden death double overtime.
But would it be the greatest backyard golf tournament of all time if it didn’t go in?

Crazy. Sudden death double overtime to start on 120 yd hole #5.
Gary again holds an advantage with a great tee shot. Derek probably would need a birdie to beat him. Doesn't look good from where he is-in the tree line to the right of the hole.

SWACK, BOUNCE, IN!
Gary Simpson was left shaking his head in what looked like a combination of disbelief, awe and admiration. The rollercoaster of pressure was now on a collision course with the Big G. He has come through numerous times in this situation. But as storied a champion as he is, this would not be his day-his second shot falling just short.



And with the sun setting in the background, Derek Schulz would again drink from the cup as the 2010 SVCC Steeplechase Championship.



An epic day. A glorious battle.

It was a day of rain
It was a day of sun
It was a day for champions and the man who almost Won!

2011 SteepleChase Date Set

Schulz Takes Steeplechase in EPIC Battle

Derek Schulz took home the 2010 Steeplechase in what can only be called one of, if not the greatest, backyard golf tournaments of all time.

The storybook day saw veteran past Champions duking it out with an underdog fan favorite who's gallery was as loud and boisterous as any that this reporter can remember. An Epic thriller that captured the attention of the sports world.

This is just but teaser to the full story to follow. Stay tuned.

The Chase is On!! September 12, 2010

SVCC "Represents" at BCC APRIL FOOLS OPEN

Robert Auld, John Zimnoch, Derek Schulz and Bill Auld made a solid showing at the BCC's prestigious championship backyard golf event 'The April Fools Open' (held in July 11-but of course). And what is this, a new age in backyard golf-"holes" not "hoops"? Very interesting to say the least. A consensus approval from the competitors. Fun!

Representing a good quarter of the competing field-the SVCC was able to send Derek and Bill to the final, exciting round of competition. Derek was in contention until hole number 7 and Bill was just one point behind the BCC groundskeeper, Gary Simpson, going into the final hole. A well placed shot-a clean birdie- and Bill could bring the BCC cup back to the SVCC clubhouse once again. But this is his course after all and Simpson's shot nearly landed in the new "hole". A kick in birdie closed out any chance to dethrone the worthy champion.

Good job once again Groundskeeper. Your hosting and hospitality are not equalled.

D.Schulz Finishes Tied for Second at Tick

Derek Schulz proudly represented the SVCC, by coming in tied for 2nd place at the prestigious Tick Open, hosted by the BCC. A 16 hole final round, a first in backyard golf major's history, saw Derek tie with Jeff Dreitlein of the BCC. BCC host and groundskeeper, Gary Simpson won the event with a final round of 14pts.

For a full writeup visit bcc-groundskeeper.blogspot.com

SVCC Round the World- In GRAND Style

SVCC Wins Third Straight Interclub

The Quantus Certanimus will stay on the SVCC mantle for another year. A great outing with our great friends at the BCC.

For a complete synoposis of the event please visit

bcc-groundskeeper.blogspot.com

SVCC 'round the World

Interclub Set for Thursday August 13th

INTERCLUB 2009 IS BACK ON! SEE YOU THURSDAY BCC!

Derek wins Steeplechase 09

Someone call 911-Derek Schulz is burning up the golf course:














It was the 2009 Steeplechase.
A backyard golf major.
Championship golf with a championship field.
A beautiful summer day.
A day that, on two occasions, the skies opened up in a glorious visual and powerful display, and then minutes later cleared as if to say "Hey I want to play too.

Those who were able to play took a part in a championship golf tournament that was of the highest caliber.

Gary Simpson-winner of the last two SVCC tourneys was there;

06 champ Derek Schulz was on hand;

Course architect and greens keeper Bill Auld -check;

The two top ranked players still fighting to lose the title of "best to not win a major" TD D'anna and Robbie Auld were present and accounted for;

The BCC superheroes Jeff Dreitlein and Pete "The Eagle" threw their hats in;














Making a return to championship golf, George Portner was in;

"the Darkhorse" Troy Schulz was ready to lay claim;

Justin and Neil Van der horn needed no practice and entered only minutes before tee time;

and finally Uncle Vic "Pennsylvania's favorite son" with golfing buddy Ron .















Oh I wonder what would and what could happen with such a cast of characters!

Would we see an Announcer boldly introduce the contestants? Yep, we would as Alexander Portner read from the teleprompter with his usual bombastic aplomb.




















Would we see crazy fans play theme music for one of their favorites? Yes, perhaps much to his chagrin, Derek was serenaded with the musical styling's of "Someone dial 911-'Shorty fire' burning on the dance floor."

Would we see a zero total carded in the preliminary rounds? Yes we would and it was Justin who couldn't find his way in round one. His father Neil would be infinitely better scoring 1pt in the round. (maybe they did need the practice round.)












Would we really see George Portner on the golf course? Yes, I told you we would!

Would Jeff Dreitlein call a penalty on himself? Oh yes he would, Mr. Sportsmanship acknowledged a hoop induced double hit that denied him a point on #8 (everything happens on #8 for Jeff).

Would we see a huge sandwich? Well yes we would, with the clubhouse staff of Karen and Barbara filling out the menu in classic alliterative theming serving the delicious "Subs, Salad and Sushi menu".















Would we see SVCC's first ever Cinderella Story playoff to get into the finals? Yes we would as newcomer Ron fell to course owner Bill on the first playoff hole. Not a very gracious host but this is tournament golf.

Would Pete" The Eagle" be a force to be reckoned with? Yes he would, himself narrowly missing out on the Cinderella playoff.

Would we actually see a woman ride up in a Harley with a dog in the sidecar? Ok, now you're just playing with me? Oh no I'm not-we certainly would see a dog in a sidecar when Fritz and her sweet dog Daisy showed up to cheer on Ron.















Would the Schulz brothers, Derek and Troy, beat up on Rober' in round two denying him sure entrance into the finals after nobly battling the G-man in round one? Well, unfortunately for Robbie they would when at least one of the Schulz's pointed on each hole in round two.

Would we see a near hoop in one in the finals that might have changed everything if it stayed in? Yes we would as Tony's chance to alter the path of the finals and his title fortunes bounce out on #7.





















Would we see an actual final round hoop in one for the second year in a row? Yes we would with Derek Schulz hooping #3 "the Chipmunk" in the final round.

Would we see a final round group that cumulatively went -9? Yes we would as all 5 finalists- Derek, Tony, Gary, Troy and Bill all had birdies to go with Derek's eagle.

Would we see a player gain only 4 points while scoring 4 birdies in the finals? Yes we would with Gary splitting points on every hole he deuced.

Would Troy hang out in the weeds, go pointless in the first 8 holes in the finals, only to attack on hole #9 to protect his brother's victory with a shot to within 2 feet of the hoop? Gary and Tony can attest that, yes, in fact we would.















And would we see Gary extend his winning streak to three at the SVCC? Well, no we wouldn't because . . .

. . . .apparently, Derek Schulz came to play. And according to his theme song someone needed to call 911-"cause Schulzy was burning up the golf course."















Congratulations to our Champion Derek, our finalists Tony, Gary, Troy and Bill, all of our golfers and the great friends and family who came to the event.


















Great to have you at the SVCC.

Dial 911-D.Schulz Wins '09 Steeplechase

DETAILS TO FOLLOW

Will You Be There?

JULY 26 JULY 26 JULY 26 JULY 26 JULY 26

Steeplechase 2009- July 26th

It is that time of year again. The season that emotes the passion of backyard golf aficionados world wide. It is time for the Steeplechase at the SVCC. The Championship will be held on Sunday July 26th. Course opens at 11:30- tournament starts at 12:30.

And to get you even more excited, here is a quote from July's issue of Backyard Golf Digest from senior correspondent, Hack McDugan. " The SVCC is in as fine a shape as I have ever seen it. The modification to #5 "Barn Swallow" (formerly #1) is an example of one of the truest risk reward golf holes on tour. Pair that with the length that has been added to #6 (formerly #2) "the Buck" and the always difficult #7 "the Pheasant" the SVCC now has its own version of Amen Corner that will add a level of competition that should electrify the crowd."


Can't wait to see you at the SVCC.

BCC Postpones Interclub

With a hint of fear in his eyes, BCC Groundskeeper Gary Simpson requested a postponement of today's Interclub Championship.

In keeping with the sportsmanship that defines the Interclub and knowing the problems that come with scheduling such an event -the SVCC accepted the request.

So the Interclub will be fought another day!

Interclub Team Receives Ancient Mojo

Derek Schulz showed his SVCC pride and in turn recieved some "Incan Imperial Mojo" in preparation for this year's Interclub Championship.

2009 Steeplechase Tournament Date Announced

The 2009 version of one of golf's most historic tournaments, "The Steeplechase" was announced today by the members of Steeple View CC. The tournament will be competed on July 26th. Crowds are always big at this event due to the caliber of contestants so get your tickets early.

the BCC Cup Back in Groundskeeper's Hands

The Groundskeeper, Gary Simpson, wrestled back ownership of his club's trophy the BCC cup, from SVCC captain, Bill Auld who had held it for nearly a year.

"I had my time with the BCC cup and it looked nice on the clubhouse mantle of the SVCC, but Gary earned it back today for his club. Well deserved." said Auld.

Derek "the Hitman" Schulz did his best to keep the trophy in the SVCC family but fell just short taking second.

And the year of Backyard Golf has concluded. What wil '09 have in store?


For a full Tick open writeup visit-
http://bcc-groundskeeper.blogspot.com/

SVCC Members to go Tick Hunting

Several SVCC members will be headed off to the hills of the Bernardsville Country Club on October 26th for this year's final major- "The Tick Open". SVCC Captain, Bill Auld says although he is the defending champion he feels there are plenty of members within his own club that are "playing much better than I am right now. I wouldn't be surprised if one of our guys will take the crown."

Some say it could be Tony D'anna. After working hard on his game all season TD has taken the month off to rest up for The Tick. "It's time" is all he had to offer as he shied away from the media blitz that always builds up for an event such as this.

With a gritty determination that has served him well on the professional tour, "Invitational" runner up, Robert Auld, stated he is "more focused than ever for the task at hand", adding "at this stage of my career I feel I am running out of opportunities to land a major."

The BCC members will certainly be poised to bring the trophy back to their club and most analysts feel that the winner will come from the BCC. Backyard Golf Digest staff writer Hack McDugan says "It's hard to bet against Gary Simpson, coming off a 'Tiger Woods at Pebble Beach' performance at last month's 'Invitational'. If its not him safe money would be on one of the many talented home course players."

But everyone wants a shot at the year's last major and perhaps a dark horse from one of the various other clubs will sneak in and stake a claim.

That's why the play the game! See you on October 26th.