June 24, 2007
Albany -- Mike Cooper led the Albany Amateur golf tournament by three-strokes after two rounds, and was looking to close out the win on his home course at Doublegate Sunday.
Standing in Coopers way was two-time defending tournament champ Brandon Anthony, but the soon-to-be 52-year-old Cooper came out blazing, shooting a 33 over the first nine holes.
The pace would slow on the back nine, and both players were showing the effects.
On the final hole, Anthony trailed Cooper by two shots, and hit a great approach shot just below the pin.
The defending champ would not be able to take advantage, though, as he missed the birdie putt, and shoots 70 for the round.
The miss was very costly, as Cooper two-putted for bogey, and wins the tournament by just one stroke.
It's Coopers first win in the Albany amateur, after two-straight third place finishes.
"I tell you what, at almost 52 years old, this is probably the best shot I'll ever have at it," says Cooper. "It's nice to have a name on that trophy."
Anthony says, "I had a chance on that last hole, if I could have made that birdie, because he left himself about four feet for par, but it happens. It's a learning experience."
Helen Kirgo won the women's championship flight, besting Kelly Pearce by ten strokes.
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