BEECH MOUNTAIN, N.C. – Not only did Tennessee defend its title in the second annual Battle of the Smokies Media Golf Challenge, it did so in convincing fashion.
The Tennessee squad rolled to a 35-25 victory over North Carolina in the friendly competition, co-hosted by Beech Mountain Club and Sugar Mountain Golf Club, May 31-June 2.
The Battle of the Smokies is an annual event that features teams of media from both states battling head-to-head in a Ryder Cup-style format.
Unlike a year ago when a sudden death playoff was needed, the Tennesseans opened a sizable lead on the second day and never looked back. For their efforts, the victors were again awarded the “coveted” two-foot trophy adorned with a sculpture of a black bear, and they also received bragging rights for another year.
“Everything was fantastic – the camaraderie, the weather and especially the courses,” said Tennessee captain Joe Hall of Tee Times magazine in Nashville. “Most of us had never played either course before. They are in great condition with scenic views from nearly every tee.”
North Carolina will attempt to turn the tables on their Tennessee counterparts next year, when the Battle of the Smokies crosses the border to the Volunteer State.
Next year’s event takes place at Eagle’s Landing Golf Club in Sevierville, Tennessee. Eagle’s Landing has a new course under construction and is expanding to 36 holes in 2010.
Contact:
Craig Distl
704.377.8622
cdistl@bellsouth.net
