Pushed into a hole that had very little to do with his own play, Ben James showed that he has that intangible that the truly gifted golfers have – an extra gear.
Having opened 70-67, the University of Virginia sophomore from Milford, Conn., was playing nicely at the South Beach International Amateur just before Christmas, only he was a whopping seven behind the leader, Ole Miss’ Michael LaSasso.
That’s when James kicked it into overdrive. He closed 66-68 to earn a two-stroke victory as LaSasso played his final 36 holes in 72-71. James’ 12-under 271 total bested a stellar field that competed on two courses – Miami Beach GC and Normandy Shores GC.
Connecticut native and current Elon standout Matt Doyle shot 67-71-76-73 – 287 to finish T-58. Mass. Golf Player of the Year Ricky Stimets shot 290 for a share of 72nd. Jackson Roman of Berlin, Conn.; John Broderick of Wellesley, Mass.; and Joey Lenane of Dedham, Mass., all competed but missed the cut.
We have more below on dozens of New England golfers who have been busy leading into the holiday break.