When Hanzel got off to a rough start with bogeys on each of his first three holes, Hall played steady all day en route to a final round 69 to earn his second win of the year following his senior division victory at the Gasparilla Invitational in February. It also marked his sixth top-five finish in his seven events this season.
"First, Greenville country club could not be a better host," said Hall. "Frank Wrenn works tirelessly to get a good field and his staff works exceedingly hard making sure everyone enjoys themselves.
"My keys to the week was driving followed by good iron play. Putting was off but consistent driving and approach shots made up the difference. I played two days with Doug and Jack Larkin so I knew where I stood with the competition."
Hall is enjoying a recent run of success despite playing with a cranky right hip that will need to be replaced.
In the off season I worked on hip rotation only to be told 30 days ago I need a complete right side hip replacement," said Hall. It doesn’t feel very good to walk or stand but has not affected my swing. I look forward to competing in the USGA Senior Open and hope I will be able to walk the 18."
Hall also credits a recent equipment upgrade.
"I upgraded my Titleist irons, and they have resulted in my last 8 competitive rounds being double digits under par."
Hanzel's final round 75 left him tied with 2019 U.S. Senior Amateur champion Bob Royak (Alpharetta, Ga.), who shot a final round 70 to gain a share of second place at 3-under.
Mike Combs (Roswell, Ga.) was the only other player to finish in red numbers at 1-under.
• • • • •
Super Seniors and Legends Division
A pair of Charlotte, NC residents, James Pearson and Johnny Elam, were tied at even-par after 54-holes of play in the Super Senior Division before Pearson prevailed in a playoff to win the title.
Neil Spitalny (Chattanooga, Tenn.) carded rounds of 64-70-70 to win the Legends Division by 12 strokes.
