Barnette Captures Senior Championship

Three gorgeous days and a magnificent golf course played a key role in Jim Barnette’s quest to take home the 2005 Senior Championship on the Crooked Oaks course at Seabrook. The Anderson resident captured the crown with a three-day total of 221, five over par.

Barnette began the day two back of 36-hole leader, Gary Shimmin of Okatie, at three over par. Going out alongside Shimmin and Bluffton native Dave Hambly, all three were tied for the lead at three over par after the first nine holes. With all three having at least one costly double bogey on the back nine, Barnette and Shimmin entered the treacherous 18th hole tied for the lead. After two perfect drives, both players found themselves needing to get up and down for the victory. After Shimmin chipped long and missed the putt for par, Barnette was able to cozy his off the green putt up near the hole for a “nerve racking” two footer and the victory.

Dave Hambly and defending Champion Johnny Dennis finished the tournament tied for third at 223.

The 2005 SCGA Senior Championship was conducted on the par 72 - 6,487 yard Crooked Oaks course at Seabrook Island Club. The field began with 113 players over the age of 55 and was cut to the low 60 and ties following 36-holes of play. The Senior Championship is one of 17 Major Championships conducted by the South Carolina Golf Association and is in its 47th year of existence. The 2006 Championship will be conducted at Belfair in Bluffton, SC.