Decenzo wins second Space Coast Amateur title

Kyle Decenzo of Viera, Fla., won his 2nd Career Space Coast Amateur Championship Sunday at Duran Golf Club, narrowly defeating first round leader John Houchin by 1 stroke on a blustery day on the open layout of the Duran Championship Golf Course.

The final pairing featured three local college players -- Decenzo (Florida Tech), Houchin (Eastern Florida), and Alexander Anderson (Florida Tech). Houchin had a four stroke lead entering the final round after a brilliant 6-under-par 66 in round one; however Decenzo managed to close the gap entering the back nine and both players were even. Decenzo managed a par to overtake Houchin on the demanding par-4 finishing hole.

The conditions were extremely difficult in the final round with constant winds of 20mph and slick greens that challenged players.

“Kyle played tremendous golf over the two days”, said Duran Head PGA Professional Matt Morrison. “As usual the challenging final stretch of holes which were playing right into the wind decided the championship”.

Winning the Senior Flight was Eddie Kenny of South Florida with a 2-day total of 1 under par.

Other flight winners included Chad Tatge (Flight A), Tim Mcrae (Flight B), and Jim Butler (Super Senior).