Gregg Angelillo of Baltusrol Golf Club won the 36th NJPGA/NJSGA Senior Open following an impressive second round, 2-under-par, 69, for a two-round total of 7-under-par 136, to win at Forsgate Country Club.
Angelillo, an amateur, came into day two with a two-stroke lead following a round of five-under par, 67 at Rossmoor Golf Club on Tuesday. Picking up where he left off, Angelillo stayed steady in the second round with a bogey-free round to hold off the field.
“I am ecstatic and so happy right now. I started off great and was hitting the ball close where I could make a few birdies on the front and give me a little space from the rest of the field,” said Angelillo. “On the back nine, I had some chances but really didn’t put myself in harm’s way. I was able to finish the day strong, not make a bogey and I think that’s how you win championships,” Angelillo said.
Coming off his Pre-Senior Championship win at Rossmoor in 2023, this is Angelillo’s first NJPGA/NJSGA Senior Open win. Joining him on the bag the past two days, Angelillo’s son, Michael, provided a sense of comfort for his father.
"He was important out there and is a great distraction for me. He keeps me focused and going. Even after I’d miss a putt, he would already have me onto the next shot,” said Angelillo. “It’s a special moment, I’m very lucky that I have a son that wants to do this and wants to spend time with me. I’m so proud that we were able to accomplish a few things and this is a big one. I’m psyched for him and really happy for all of us,” said Angelillo.
Coming in behind Angelillo was Jeff Maines, a professional at Spring Brook CC, who fired a second round score of three-under par, 68. Tied for third with a two-day score of two-under par, 141, was a trio of professionals: Andy Brock of Inspiration Golf Range, Rudy Virga of Bayonne GC and Frank Esposito of Mountain Ridge CC.