Muschong survives to capture 83rd Winchester Memorial

Published 10:25 am Wednesday, May 29, 2019

The 83rd edition of the Winchester Memorial turned into a classic — more specifically an endurance classic.

With tournament finalists Joe Muschong (Lexington) and Justin Charles of Winchester not giving an inch on a day when playing 50 holes was the order of the day, it came down to that one shot that made the difference.

It was Muschong who executed it. His second shot to within four feet and subsequent birdie putt gave him the lead that he held on the final hole as he captured the 83rd annual Winchester Memorial Golf Tournament 1-up over the game and gritty Charles.

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With Sunday’s late afternoon rain suspending quarterfinal action, it necessitated early morning play that eventually became a marathon for the two finalists.  While Charles had to complete the final 12 holes to oust John Baldwin (Indianapolis), Muschong had to go the entire route to nip Zack Smith (Mount Sterling).

In the semifinals Muschong needed 20 holes to oust Morehead State teammate Cooper Collins, while Charles matched a birdie, birdie finish by Tyler Fields (Lexington) to earn a hard fought 1-up win. Charles was never headed until he reached the final hole of the tournament. His attempt at birdie to extend the match on the final hole barely missed. Both finalists were seeking their first Memorial title.

Other noteworthy achievements included:  Championship Flight Consolation:  Matthew Martin def. Ross Todd; 1st Flt. Consolation–J. R. Maxam def. Michael Bradley; 2nd Flt.–Chase Taylor def. Todd Howard, 21 holes; 2nd Flt. Consolation–Allan Henry, winner; 3rd Flt.–Craig Palmer def. R. J. Palmer; 3rd Flt. Consolation–Pete Wilkins, winner; 4th Flt.–Aaron Parrish, winner; 4th Flt. Consolation–David Culton, runner up; 5th Flt.–Christian Brewer, winner; 6th Flt–Anthony Patrick def. Jace Patrick.

A total of 132 players participated in the three-day event.