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Haymaker to host state tournament

John F. Russell

— Steamboat’s Haymaker Golf Course will host the state’s top 4A golfers for the state championship.

It will be Steamboat’s first time to host the state tournament.

“It’s exciting,” said Steve Dod–son, Steamboat Springs High School golf coach. “I think everyone on our team is looking forward to it.”



Golf was added as an official high school sport in Steamboat Springs in 1997. Since then, Haymaker has hosted high school tournaments, including a regional championship a few years ago.

However, the state tournament, scheduled for Oct. 2 and 3, will be the biggest high school level event to take place at the course in its 10-year history.



“A great course like Haymaker will really test these players,” said Hank Franks, head professional at Haymaker. “This is not a course that will reward shoddy play.”

Unlike other high school championships in Colorado, the golf tournament is rotated between the different regions of the state. This year was the Western Slope’s turn, and Steamboat Springs administrators jumped at the chance.

Dodson and assistant golf coach Scott Berry approached the Colorado High School Activities Association at the end of last season. Steamboat’s promptness paid off, as the Sailors were awarded the right to host the tournament.

“The tournament usually goes to the first school to step up to the plate,” said Tom Robinson, assistant commissioner for CHSAA. “We knew they had a great golf course and a good reputation at Haymaker, so we are giving them the chance.”

To get to the state tournament, teams and individual players need to qualify at the regional tournament. This year, the Steamboat players will need to make the cut at a regional tournament at the Devil’s Thumb course in Delta. If things go well for the Sailors, local players — including seniors Paul Berry and Tucker Campbell — will get the opportunity to play for a title on their home course.

The Class 5A tournament will be at the Pinehurst County Club in Denver on Oct. 2 and 3.


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