Teal Bend Golf Course just outside of Sacramento, California was the site for WAGA California Open held June 2nd and 3rd , 2012. Nineteen amputees, one multiple sclerosis, and four normie players from California, Washington, Nevada and Arizona attended the two day event under beautiful weather and a course in great shape.

The first day players teed off under ideal conditions and enjoyed a round on an amputee friendly course. Along with the players, a gobble of turkeys with the hen and her brood caught the attention of everyone who had to get a picture with their phones or cameras. Of course, you had the normal ribbing between arm and leg amps but as usual an event chaired by Chris went off without a hitch.

At the end of day one: Danny Stevens, VP of WAGA from Portland, OR, shot the low round with a 74; followed closely by Steve Anderson, WAGA Board Member from Ventura, CA, with a 75; Jim Curley, now of Klamath Falls, OR, with a 76; and Johnny Loya, of Phoenix, AZ, with an 83.

sac12champsSaturday evening after the round the players and their significant others were treated to a spectacular cook-out on Chris’s ranch. A feast of authentic Mexican food, sodas and of course ice cold beer made it a perfect gathering of competitors, family and friends. The highlight of the evening was George Gallinari and his beautiful daughter Lizz horseback riding. Or should I say being led around by a ranch hand while sitting gingerly in the saddle. Needless to say, Roy Rodgers and Dale Evans they were NOT.

Sunday again was played under fantastic conditions and play went smoothly. In fact, competition seemed to fly by and soon the two day competition came to an end. The first group of low shooters led off some apparently wobbly wheels, as Danny shot a 91, Steve and Jim shot an 84, and Johnny an 85. Bill Harding was unable to continue the second day, but Joe Ferreira, an original member of WAGA joined us, along with Bob Tipton. Our only lady, Sheryl Clark (AK/BK) from Hollywood, was an inspiration with her positive attitude, southern grace, and quick smile. After a wonderful lunch provided by Teal Bend, awards were given out as follows: