Fendt Sticks to Game Plan, Leads Dogwood Invitational at -7

06 Jun 2018
by AmateurGolf.com Staff
see also: View results for Dogwood Invitational, Druid Hills Golf Club, Jake Fendt Rankings
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Jake Fendt (Kennesaw State Athletics photo)

By Stan Awtrey

ATLANTA, GA (June 6, 2018) - Kennesaw State golfer Jake Fendt knew there was a 65 out there. He had already done it during a practice round at Druid Hills Golf Club over the weekend while playing with a member. So he stuck with the same game plan and repeated it in the first round of the 52nd Dogwood Invitational. It was enough to give Fendt the first-round lead at one of the nation’s premier amateur invitationals.

Fendt didn’t qualify for the event last year and came in with modest expectations. “My goal was to make the 54-hole cut and be around on the weekend,” he said. “I never really had a set-in-stone goal, just go out there and try to play my best.”

Fendt learned from his practice round that there was no need to take a chance hitting a wild driver around the tight Druid Hills course. So he kept the big stick in the bag for most of the day and was content with hitting a 2-iron off most of the tees. He didn’t make a bogey all day. “I’ve been struggling with my driver and I think I’m onto something,” Fendt said. “Honestly I hit my 2-iron off every single tee box and only hit driver where you can kind of spray it.”

What’s even more surprising about Fendt’s score is his lack of success on the par-5s. He settled for pars on three of the four, making only one birdie.

Three players are one shot back. Spencer Ralston of the University of Georgia, Jacob Solomon of Auburn and David Laskin of the University of Arizona. They each shot 66.

The group at 67 includes University of Georgia freshman Trent Phillips, Konrad Brauckmeyer of Peru, William Nottingham of Clemson, and Zachary Healy, who just finished his career at Georgia.

Defending champion Lloyd Jefferson Go of Cebu, Philippines, opened with a 72.

Canadian mid-amateur Garrett Rank, who on Monday qualified for the U.S. Open at the Atlanta sectional qualifier, also shot a 72. On a day where red numbers were plenty, Rank started slowly, going 4 over through 8 holes, before getting all four shots back on his second nine.

His real job is @nhl referee. But Garrett Rank (the world’s top ranked Mid-Am) just qualified for the @usopengolf and this week he’s trying to make some birdies at #TheDogwood

A post shared by AmateurGolf.com (@amateurgolf) on Jun 6, 2018 at 12:05pm PDT

There were 47 players who shot par or better under ideal scoring conditions.

Results: Dogwood Invitational

Ashton Poole

Charlotte, NC

1000

69-66-64-67=266

Chandler Eaton

Alpharetta, GA

700

69-67-69-65=270

S.M. Lee

Buford, GA

500

69-64-70-68=271

Jacob Solomon

Dublin, CA

500

66-70-68-69=273

William Nottingham

Kingsport, TN

500

67-69-65-72=273

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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