In a field composed of mostly college players, it comes as
no surprise to see a rising senior at Indiana University take the 114th
Indiana Amateur Championship title.
Nicholas Grubnich of Crown Point, Ind. began the week with a 3-under-par
69 and posted three out of four subpar rounds during the four day event, never
relinquishing his lead. His even par 72
today gave him a three shot victory over former teammate David Mills of
Evansville, Ind.
At the beginning of the week, Grubnich was striking the ball
nearly flawlessly and as the week progressed he relied more on his short game.
“It was different each day,” Grubnich said. I was hitting the ball really well during the
first two rounds. Towards the end of the
week a few shots got away from me, but my short game saved me. This week different parts of my game were
able to show through and I think that is reason why I was able to win.”
Grubnich and Mills played collegiate golf together and are
friends on and off the golf course.
Today, the duo proved untouchable and it was a two man race to the
finish line.
“Having David in the lead group with me today made me feel
more comfortable,” Grubnich said. “It’s
always exciting to be in the final group and see who is able to handle their
nerves and remain in contention. I knew
it would be a two man race between David and I, and I am happy I was able to
keep my nerves in check.”
This is Grubnich’s first IGA win and serves as a confidence
booster as he heads into his senior season at Indiana University.
“I made some big strides this spring during my college
tournaments and this reflects that,” Grubnich said. “I couldn’t be more excited to win this
event. I am absolutely thrilled.
Hopefully I can continue to play well and have a breakout
senior year.”
Grubnich finished the week with a four day total of 280,
8-under-par. He had a three shot lead
heading to the par-5, 18th hole and was able to hit the green in two
and make birdie.
“After I hit my second shot on 18, I looked at my mom and
said ‘I think that should do it,’” Grubnich said. “At that point, I just enjoyed the walk up
and tried to soak it all in.”
McCormick Clouser of Bluffton, Ind. finished third with a
four day total of 289, 1-over-par.