Dogwood Invitational: 11-under from Ben Griffin highlights hot start

26 Jun 2013
by Benjamin Larsen of AmateurGolf.com
see also: View results for Dogwood Invitational, Druid Hills Golf Club, Ben Griffin Rankings
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Benjamin Griffin

ATLANTA, Ga. (June 26, 2013) -- As a high school sophomore, Ben Griffin of Chapel Hill, N.C. challenged a group of golfers from the University of North Carolina golf team to a match.

He beat two of them but fell to the Tarheels' then-No. 1 golfer. While two-out-of-three 'ain't' bad, he was complete in his efforts Wednesday.

Griffin, Golfweek's 14th-ranked junior who'll enter his senior year of high school in the fall, fired a red-hot 11-under 61 to lead all players after the first round of action at the 2013 Dogwood Invitational at Druid Hills Golf Club.

Griffin verbally committed to the Tarheels last winter and he's getting practice against the nation's best collegians this week. Thursday, he'll sit atop the leaderboard by two shots.

In second place is Georgia Tech's Oliver Schniederjans, who broke out for a 9-under 63 to begin play. Davin White and Michael Johnson are at 8-under while Alabama's Tom Lovelady, Anthony Maccaglia and Thomas Sutton are four back at 7-under and tied for fifth.

They're all chasing Griffin, who simply went off today. He went out in 31 thanks to three birdies and an eagle three on the par-5 ninth hole. On the back, he birdied six of the last seven holes for a 30.

The Dogwood Invitational began in 1941 and is a 72-hole event featuring a cut to the low 40 and ties after 54 holes.

The field annually features some of the top collegians and rising juniors from across the country. Notable scores from the first round include: No. 5 junior Brad Dalke (3-under, T18), Porter Cup winner Richy Werenski of Georgia Tech (3-under, T18), Texas A&M signee Mickey Werenski (2-under, T23), No. 1 junior and Alabama commit Robby Shelton (2-under, T23), Big East Champion Chase Koepka (1-under, T33), North & South champion Peter Williamson (1-under, T33).

Results: Dogwood Invitational

1	Michael Johnson	Birmingham, AL	1000	64-69-63-64--260

2	Oliver Schniederjans	Powder Springs, GA	700	63-69-67-68--267
3	Ben Griffin	Canada	500	61-73-69-69--272

4	Davin White	Atlanta, GA	500	64-70-68-71--273
T5	Wyndham Clark	Greenwood Village, CO	500	72-71-65-66--274

View full results for Dogwood Invitational

ABOUT THE Dogwood Invitational

**Compete June 4–7 at Atlanta's Druid Hills GC. Entry includes daily meals, elite play, and exclusive events at one of amateur golf’s top tournaments.**

**Dogwood Invitational Overview**

Welcome to the Dogwood Invitational, one of the premier showcases in amateur golf, held at the historic Druid Hills Golf Club in Atlanta, Georgia. This year’s tournament takes place June 4–7, 2025, offering top-ranked amateurs a competitive and memorable experience steeped in tradition and Southern hospitality.

**A Legacy of Champions**

Since its inception in 1941, the Dogwood has crowned some of the game’s finest amateur talents. Among the prestigious list of past champions are: - Webb Simpson (2007) - Brian Harman (2009) - Dawson Armstrong (2015) - Brandon Mancheno (2019)

The event continues to evolve, blending rich history with a modern competitive spirit. Recent course enhancements and a thoughtful tournament setup reflect this commitment to excellence.

**Tournament Format & Player Experience**

- Format: 72-hole stroke play over four days - Venue: Druid Hills Golf Club – a classic layout offering a true championship test

Players will enjoy a relaxed, player-focused atmosphere, with top-level amenities and a strong community spirit. The Dogwood Invitational is proud to balance elite competition with a welcoming environment.

**What’s Included**

Your entry fee covers a premium tournament experience: - Daily breakfast and lunch during competition days - Exclusive social events for players - Access to a network of elite amateur competitors and industry presence

**Player Logistics**

- Walking-only event: Players may carry their own bags, use push carts, or bring a caddie - Caddies: Optional – players can request one during registration or bring their own - Player housing: Limited accommodations available to players only (caddies and guests not included)

**Why Play the Dogwood?**

- A top-tier national amateur event - Historic venue in the heart of Atlanta - Strong field, excellent hospitality, and a memorable week of golf - Opportunities to compete against future PGA Tour stars

View Complete Tournament Information

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