The MGM Tour’s players are back in action later this month in the Griffith Observatory Championship (John Frost defends), signaling the start of the season’s second half.
1st half winners
Clint Crump, Manhattan Beach
P-Jay Fidler, Charly Invt’l
Moawad/Frost, Hooters
Nik Freitas, Match Play Invt’l
The Tour’s last action was the Match Play Invitational in April, won by Nik Freitas. The Tour rookie became the third 9-seed in a row to win the tournament. His victory earned him an automatic spot in the Masters, further heightening the drama for the Qualifier. With defending champion Travois Gordón and Tour Champion Martin Witt exempt, there will be just 2 spots on offer for 8 others to fight for.
Streaks
Nicknamed Mr. Final Four, Gerry Vaughan’s final four streak in the Match Play Invitational ended at 6 straight after his 1st round loss to John Frost. It was his first loss before the Final Four in 9 years. Armen Grigorian, John Mann, and Walter Vargas missed the match play tournament for first time in their careers.
Milestones
The Match Play Invitational marked the 85th start of John Frost’s career, the 75th for Gerry Vaughan, and 70th for both Travois Gordón and P-Jay Fidler. Doug Vargas became just the 2nd golfer on Tour to reach 20 career wins in match play; his 8th Final Four appearance puts him 1 shy of the record held by Armen Grigorian.