COLUMBUS, Ohio – The Donald Ross design at Columbus Country Club proved a stern test during the final round of the 6th National Super Senior and 24th John Kline Championships, but it was Steve Maddalena of Jackson, Michigan, who rose to the challenge. Trailing by four entering the day, Maddalena carded a steady 73 to finish at four-over 220, sealing a come-from-behind victory and adding another highlight to his senior golf career.
Overnight leader Randal Lewis of Alma, Michigan, could not hold off his fellow Michigander, closing with a 79 to finish two shots back at 222. Robert Brooks of West Des Moines, Iowa, produced the round of the day and the only under-par score, a one-under 71, to climb into third at 223.
In the John Kline Championship’s Legend Division, Edward Turner of Richardson, Texas, broke through for his first Society of Seniors title. Turner’s consistent play produced a three-day total of two-over 218, giving him a two-shot cushion over John Armstrong of Frostburg, Maryland, and Marc Fried of Solon, Ohio. Veteran Don Donatoni of West Chester, Pennsylvania, finished fourth at five-over.
The Super Legend Division provided a dominant performance from Pete Allen of Southport, North Carolina. Already a Tutwiler champion earlier this year alongside Donatoni, Allen built on his momentum to secure the title with the only red number of the week. His one-under 215 left him eight strokes clear of co-runners-up Sam Robinson of Jacksonville Beach, Florida, and Gary Hardin of Fort Worth, Texas. Bill Engel of Saint Augustine, Florida, finished fourth at 227.
The Society of Seniors extends its thanks to Columbus Country Club for hosting and to Callaway Golf for its continued sponsorship. The championship once again showcased the depth of senior amateur golf and the enduring competitive spirit of its players.