Friday, June 27, 2003
Friday, June 27, 2003 |
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Shirley ties for eighth in Georgia PGA event Clayton College & State University's Jess Shirley of Newnan tied for eighth last week in the Georgia Professional Golf Association's Yamaha Atlanta Open at the Marietta Country Club in Kennesaw. Competing as an amateur in the field of over 150 golfers, Shirley finished at 2-under par 140 on the par 71 course. He opened the tourney with a 4-under par 67, followed by a 2-over par 73 in the final round. Shirley, who will be a senior next season, tied with three other golfers for second place among amateurs in the event. "I watched him for part of this tournament, and it was a pleasure to see how well he has taken control of his game," said Clayton State head coach Bob Hill. "Jess has improved each year and is ready for a fine senior season." Shirley's opening round of 67 tied him for third after the first day of competition. He finished only five shots out of first place as Jennings Mill Country Club professional Greg Lee won the event and a $6,000 first place prize in a playoff with a two-round score of 135 (67-68). Low amateur honors went to former Georgia College & State University standout David Robinson, the three-time Peach Belt Conference Player of the Year, with a two-round score of 138 (67-71). "I played well, and it was a wonderful learning experience," said Shirley. "It was neat playing with the leaders on the second day. Hopefully, it will help me when I'm in similar situations in the future." Shirley, a three-year letter winner for the Lakers, was a member of Clayton State's 2003 NCAA Southeast Regional squad that placed sixth. He closed the season strong, placing 22nd in the event, shooting a 1-over par 73 in the final round of the region event. In addition to his play at Regionals, Shirley tied for first early this spring in the Richard Rendleman Invitational after firing a 5-under par 67, a career best and the third best round in Clayton State history.
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