Mike Gianopoulos, CGCS, is in the hunt to win back-to-back titles.
Gianopoulos, who oversees Kent Country Club in Grand Rapids, Mich., recorded a 3-over-par 75 on Sunday in the opening round after an over two-hour weather delay in the GCSAA National Championships at Walt Disney World Resort’s Magnolia Golf Course in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. He is tied with Richard Moore as they head into Monday’s final round in the 76th GCSAA National Championships. This is the 32nd year that The Toro Company is the presenting partner for the tournament.
Gianopoulos, a 17-year GCSAA member, was even after a birdie at No. 10 until be posted three consecutive bogeys starting at No. 15.
Moore, a seven-year association member and assistant superintendent at Aurora Hills Golf Course in Aurora, Colo., rallied following a 39 on the front nine that included a double bogey on No. 9.
Meanwhile, two players are tied for third: Past champion Shawn Westacott and Nathan Nathan Carter, each carding a 4-over-par 76. In fifth place is six-time champion Seth Strickland, shooting 5-over-par 77. Another past champion, Michael Stieler, is in ninth place after notching a 7-over-par 79.
This marks the 10th time the tournament has been held in the Orlando area and the 18th time overall in Florida.
Rich Hagen, seven-year GCSAA member and director of agronomy, oversees Disney’s Magnola GC. Ten-year association member Chris Pierce is superintendent.
Howard Richman is GCM's associate editor