Match Play Bracket Set at 39th New Jersey Mid-Amateur Championship
Conor Casey of Somerset Hills CC
BERNARDSVILLE, N.J. – After 18 holes of stroke play, the match play bracket for the 39th New Jersey Mid-Amateur Championship is set at Somerset Hills Country Club. Conor Casey, of Somerset Hills earned the top seed after notching an impressive 4-under par 67 on Wednesday afternoon.
“It’s such a treat to play at home and it’s kind of strange at the same time, said Casey. There’s some added pressure it seems, but I’m just very thankful that you guys are hosting the tournament here and it’s been a lot of fun so far.”
Casey, 33, notched seven birdies and just three bogeys on the 6,729-yard course. He will face Ryan Cass of Canoe Brook in the opening round of 16 on Thursday at 7:30 a.m.
“I continue to relearn this idea of just playing as you would in stroke play, that’s what everyone says, but I think it’s true,” explained Casey. “I’ll hopefully continue to do that and just enjoy it.”
Just six competitors carded rounds of par or better on Wednesday.
Reigning Mid-Amateur Champion Eric LeFante finished right behind Casey, recording a 3-under par 68. LeFante nearly had a blemish-free round up until the 15th hole, where he turned in a triple bogey. Overall, he had six birdies.
The pair used their home course knowledge to their advantage, but aren't taking it for granted.
“I’ve been playing here a long time, so I know how to play here but you have to execute,” said LeFante. “Troy played good and seeing Connor Casey is out there playing good too so, nothing is given, you have to go out and earn it.”
Troy Vannucci, who is coming off a victory at the 2022 Golf Association of Philadelphia (GAP) Mid-Amateur Championship, finished at 1-under par.
There was a seven for five playoff to advance to match play. Round of 16 matches will begin at 7:30 a.m.
NJSGA Social Media
For the latest updates and news, visit njgsa.org or follow New Jersey State Golf Association on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram at @NJSGA1900.
