For more than six decades, Silver Bay’s Men’s Invitational has drawn golfers from across the country, but it’s about more than scores. The tournament celebrates friendship, tradition, and the community spirit that makes Silver Bay feel like home for all who return each year.
The tournament’s popularity shows no signs of slowing. Norma O’Leary, Silver Bay Golf Course’s general manager, says there has been a waiting list every year for the past four years, as golfers from near and far make plans to return for this beloved weekend.
“It’s kind of a little reunion for those guys each year,” said O’Leary, who has been with the golf course for 35 years.
Alumni travel from as far as West Virginia and Colorado to return for the tournament, blending friendly competition with familiar faces. Participants enjoyed classic fairway fare like burgers and beans served from the weekend food tent, and for many, the nine-hole tournament was as much about camaraderie as it was about scorecards.
A few quick showers rolled through over the weekend, but they weren’t enough to keep golfers off the course.
“Sunday morning was a bit on the chilly side,” said O’Leary. “But golf is played outdoors, and it’s played in the weather. Most of them are prepared for that.”
Despite the brisk conditions, Mike Johnson made the weekend unforgettable when he sank his first Hole in One on the 8th hole Sunday, sealing his match with style.
The weekend saw some impressive performances across all divisions. In the Regular Division, Eric Berquist claimed the championship, while Harry Johnson dominated the Senior Division. Mike Guzzo took the top spot in the Super Senior Division.
Championship flights were equally competitive. Sam Tukey emerged as the winner in the Championship Flight, and Harry Johnson also captured the Senior Championship title.
Flight winners across the divisions showcased talent at every level. Mark Roubinek took first place in the 1st Flight, followed by David Talus in the 2nd, Larry Wicks in the 3rd, Bob Babbitt in the 4th, Ryan Lee in the 5th, Kyle Osmundson in the 6th, Jesse Bryand in the 7th, and Andy Jarombeck in the 8th.
Senior flights went to Cliff Niedzielski in first and Jerry Larson in second.
Among the Super Seniors, Jim Frericks, Mike Elam, Nate Breden, and Dylan Jouppi all earned top finishes, with Mike Guzzo ultimately winning the Super Senior Championship, followed by runner-up Terry Miller and consolation winner Pete Petric.
O’Leary says the tournament runs like a well-oiled machine, but she’s quick to credit the many volunteers who make it possible, mostly golf course members dedicating their time and energy.
“There’s a lot that goes into it,” she said. “The volunteers help so much to make it happen. Volunteers in the score tents, volunteers setting up the tents and taking them down. There’s so much that the volunteers do, like announcing at first tee. I want to give accolades to the volunteers because, without them, it would be impossible to pull this thing off year after year.”
Beyond keeping the tournament running smoothly, O’Leary sees the event’s wider impact on the community.
“Our tournaments, events like that, they help generate funds, but it also brings people into Silver Bay,” she said. “It’s good for the whole community when we can get this many people to come back to Silver Bay.”
Congratulations to all the golfers who made the 66th Annual Men’s Invitational a weekend to remember! From first putt to Mike Johnson’s unforgettable Hole in One on the 8th, the tournament was full of memorable moments. Remember to sign up early for the 67th!
