Al Hoyle with the MGA Cup.

On a cool Halloween Morning, The Reynolds Lake Oconee Men’s Golf Association concluded its year end tournament, The MGA Cup, at the Landing Golf Course. 24 golfers, who had proven themselves superior to their peers teed off in the morning dew in search of that trophy, the coveted crystal MGA Cup.

A little history is in order here. Much like the FedEx Cup, men earn points throughout the year with their play in the MGA’s regular Saturday events. On the weekend of October 24th, the top 72 players are invited to begin the tournament for the Cup by playing both Saturday and Sunday. The 72 are whittled to 48 for Sunday’s round, and the 48 are further knocked down to 24 for the final day. Points are reset after each round, and the winner finally emerges with the cup in hand.

Everyone who makes it to the final day is awarded a dinner and his spouse is invited just to let her see who he’s been hanging around with every weekend throughout the year. It’s a great night, and most guys feel like they won if only they can make it to the dinner. This year we were even visited by Bobby Jones (aka John Baird) in his blazer, tie and knickers much to everyone’s delight. Food as usual was excellent, speeches were wonderfully brief, and despite the performance of some of our favorite college football teams, a good time was had by all.

We want to recognize the winners for their achievements. First, certainly no small feat in itself, we need to applaud the year that Jay Hill had in 2015. Jay was our overall points winner for the entire season, and was rewarded with a trophy of his own and an envelope rumored to contain more than the fifty cents Jay thought it might. Congratulations, Jay! It’s great to have one of our most respected and regular players achieve this distinction.

The tournament itself was, as usual, exciting, nerve-wracking, frustrating, and everything else golf is supposed to be every day. At the end of Sunday’s round, Al Hoyle stood alone at the top, having edged Doc Lykins by only 22 points. They were followed by Dick Wuori, Luckie McClintock, (whose envelope was graciously accepted by his much better half, Pat,) and our leader going into the tournament, Jay Hill. Congratulations to all the players for a terrific tournament and overall year!

The Board of the MGA and all the players want to express our appreciation to the people who make our year so wonderful. The professional and golf course staffs are always fantastic, and we don’t appreciate their work enough. Similarly, we play on some wonderful golf courses prepared by superintendents we rarely see, but should thank more often. And, finally, the banquet staffs always make our events end with a good taste in our mouths. Thanks to all.

We’re already looking forward to next year!