The CSGA Links Volume 2 Issue 3 May, 2014 | Page 19

11th Russell C. Palmer Cup

May 20th - 21st, 2014

T

he 11th Russell C. Palmer Cup will return to the
Country Club of Waterbury for the sixth time
in tournament history. Named for Connecticut
Golf Hall of Fame Member and Former CSGA Executive
Director (1986-95), the Palmer Cup is considered the
CSGA’s stroke play championship. The competition is one
of strength and endurance, contested over 54-holes in
two consecutive days (18-holes on Tuesday, 36-hole on
Wednesday).

Originally founded in 1899 and designed by
Donald Ross, the Country Club of Waterbury is one of
Connecticut’s oldest and most prestigious clubs. It boasts
a rich history of hosting the state’s top amateur and
professional tournaments, and has played host to ten
Connecticut Amateur Championships (most recently in
2010), five Connecticut Senior Amateur Championships
(most recently in 1982), and the Connecticut Open (2005)
and Women’s Open (2004) Championships.

There is little doubt that when the first CSGA Major
champion of 2014 is crowned, they will have withstood
one of New England’s toughest tests. Playing to a par-69
and short by today’s standards (6,558 yards), the CC of
Waterbury features a diabolical set of greens, combined
with thick rough and firm fairways. Holes like the 445yard par-4 18th (pictured here) require a precise tee shot
shaped around the corner, leaving a demanding approach
to an elevated green.

Last year’s Champion and 2013 Player of the Year
Cody Paladino will not be returning to defend his title,
having turned professional over the winter. Among the
favorites to capture the title include Blake Morris, currently
a junior at Ole Miss. Morris finished 2nd last year by three
shots and will b