MANSFIELD — It’s not as big as it was in its heyday, but the event formerly known as the Richland County Women’s Golf Tournament is regaining its footing.
The Tri-County Women’s Golf Tournament featuring players from Richland, Crawford and Ashland counties will tee off July 27 at Pebble Creek Golf Club and conclude July 29 at the Shelby Country Club.
The current three-county format was introduced in 2013. Dwindling participation among Richland County golfers compelled organizers to open the event to players from neighboring counties.
“In our last year when we had only Richland County golfers, I think we were down to 15 players,” spokesperson Vicky Varvel said. “Last year we had 31 girls and we are hoping to see it continue to grow.”
During its peak, the Richland County Women’s Golf Tournament drew up to 100 participants. It produced champions like Mary DeKlyn and Jean Flockenzier, who were great ambassadors for the game. Nancy Joyce, Dawn Thornton, Tammy Hammett, Jennie Fleiner and Rachel Thompson all have carried the torch over the years.
“We have had a lot of great champions,” Varvel said.
Players are grouped into one of four flights based on handicaps. The Championship flight is for players wit a handicap of 15 and under. The first flight is for players with a handicap between 16 and 22, while the second flight is for players with a handicap between 23 and 29 and the third flight is for players with a handicap between 30 and 36. Varvel said there may also be a seniors flight this year.
Cindy Heidlebaugh won the Championship Flight of the 2015 Tri-County with a two-day total of 171, one stroke better than Katie Roesch (172). Bev Mesner (182) won the first flight, while Carol Miley (197) was the second flight winner and Barb Larrabee (216) was the third flight champ.
“We would like to attract some younger players,” Varvel said. “The younger generation of girls is so busy with work and family commitments. I’m not sure how many young players we have coming up, but we want to get them involved in the game.”
This year’s entry fee is $80. To sign up or for more information, call 419-529-4767.
