Conn. State Am: Smith beats Conroy in final

ORANGE, Conn. (June 29, 2012) -- The fifth and final day of the 110th Connecticut Amateur played at Race Brook Country Club featured No. 3 seed and 2011 Amateur finalist Matt Smith of Quinnatisset versus No. 20 seed Ben Conroy of eCclub of River Valley. It was a family affair, as both competitors had their fathers caddie for them throughout the week. Smith got off to a fast start, winning four of the first five holes to take a 3 up advantage thru 5 holes. This was a common theme for Smith throughout the week, as he never trailed any of his previous four matches. Conroy would end up playing from behind all day, as Smith would make only three bogeys against seven birdies during the 30 hole match. Smith was able to counter any charge by Conroy with his deft short game touch and superb putting. Smith rode his hot putter until the very last hole, when he made a seven footer to win the 110th Connecticut Amateur 7&6. Family and friends gathered throughout the day to support both competitors on this exciting day. Smith is the first player since Steve Velardi to make back to back Amateur finals and win in his second opportunity. Velardi lost in 2003 and went on to win in 2004.