46th Cottonwood Classic celebrates another successful tournament

The 46th Cottonwood Classic rolled through the weekend with frustration, relaxation and determination from 130 golfers that participated in the tournament that boasted seven flights, a senior flight and a championship flight.

It’s the largest annual competition at Yampa Valley Golf Course, bringing together friends and competitors who often only see one another once a year at the event.

“I love it. I look forward to it every year,” said Rick Nelson, who played his seventh Cottonwood Classic this year.

The plush green course has cottonwood trees, lush wetlands and sage sprawling throughout. Temperatures were in the low 90s, making it sweltering, but cloud coverage and a light breeze kept things somewhat cooler.

Keith Humerickhouse took first gross in the championship flight with 204, Joe Elliot followed in second at 223 and Doug Choate was third with 229.

Competition and camaraderie were present throughout the weekend.

“It was great weather and I had a good time,” said Dwayne Powell, noting that his game was completely off Friday. “Made a pretty good comeback the second day though. It’s pressure, and then you relax, you get into your grove and you play your game.”

Powell scored 247, taking fourth in Flight 6, and he took second gross in the senior finish.

Each flight winner received $500 in pro-shop credit.

Noelle Leavitt Riley can be reached at 970-875-1790 or nriley@CraigDailyPress.com.