Brad Tilley Wins Amateur Golf Championship
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July 3, 2003
Rising Second Year and golf team starter, Brad Tilley, recently won the 48th MGA/Canon “Ike” Stroke Play Championships in Jericho, NY. Even though he suffered from severe tendonitis in his left hand during the third and final round, he finished strong with an overall total of 214 (71-71-72).
“This is a huge win for Brad. The “IKE” is a great championship, which always includes many of the best amateur golfers in the country,” said Virginia coach Mike Moraghan. “I’m just absolutely thrilled for Brad and his family. Its significant for our team as well. I know our other players will feed off Brad’s success. Its great for all of us.”
Tilley put himself in position to win after the second round by following up his first round one-under-par 71 with another 71 (36 – 35) to give himself the second round lead. Starting on the10th tee, Tilley began his final round strong, with birdies on two of the first three holes. With five holes to play, Tilley had a five shot lead over his nearest opponent, but he faced trouble on his 15th hole when his tee shot on the par three fell within four feet from a water hazard on the right for the third consecutive round. However, Tilley was able to hold on to finish with two pars and win by two.
This win not only makes Tilley a bigger threat in the golfing world, but also has a huge impact on the Virginia team.
According to Moraghan, “Brad is very reliable, both as a golfer and as a person. He already has his teammates’ respect, but his improved play gives a boost to everyone. I’d like to think that he is emerging as a top tier college player, capable of being All-ACC and All-American. Obviously that would benefit the team enormously if he rises to that level.”
Tilley, who hails from Chappaqua, NY, was a member of the golf team’s starting line-up in his first year and had the second-best average on the team of 74.50. This is his first MGA title, but will not be his last.
“Brad has a great work ethic, as strong a work ethic as any player we’ve ever had. He is thoroughly dedicated to improving all aspects of his game and competing at the highest level, both in college and amateur golf, and eventually on the PGA Tour” said Moraghan.
Tilley plans to spend the rest of the summer playing in major amateur championships such as the Southern and Eastern Amateurs, and, if he can qualify next month, he will play in the U.S. Amateur Championships from August 18 – 24. However, he will return to the New York area on July 31st for the Met Amateur at Somerset Hills in Bernardsville, NJ, which runs through the third of August.