The 2018 Biggs Classic

            The 2018 Biggs Classic is history. The three-day golf tournament, played May 14-16 and hosted by Hertford’s Albemarle Plantation in conjunction with the GPro golf tour, fielded a full complement of 120 young professionals from all over the country and even one from as far away as South Africa. Monsoon-like rains flooded the Sound Golf Links on the eve of the tournament, but the weather for the next three days was nothing short of glorious.

            Closing ceremonies after the tournament saw a $12,000 check presented to the winner, David Gazzolo of Riverside, California, who shot a 65 on the final day and a total of 14 under par to edge out Drew Weaver by a single shot. Not only did Gazzolo win, he did it in the most spectacular fashion. Coming to the 18^th tee tied for the lead, he refused to play it safe and went for broke. Instead of laying up on the short 334-yard Par 4, he took advantage of a following wind and blasted his drive straight for the green. The ball landed on the putting surface and came to rest only 18 inches from the hole. Gazzolo tapped it in for an eagle, the greatest finish ever in the Biggs Classic’s five year run at the Sound Golf Links.

            In addition to the winner’s check, Gazzolo also earned an exemption to Web.com’s Rex Hospital Open the following week in Raleigh.

            Another check, this one for $2,500, was presented to Charley Hines, winner of this year’s Bruce Biggs scholarship awarded annually to a Perquimans High School senior planning to attend East Carolina University in the fall. Charley will earn another $2,500 upon completion of her freshman year with a 3.0 GPA or better.

            Yet another check, this one for $5,000, is going to the tournament’s designated charity, the Boys and Girls Club of America.

            According to Gary Haugh, president of the GPro golf tour, the Biggs Classic has become the standard for developmental tour golf. Not only is the tournament played on a superb golf course, it is supported by many local sponsors and by the Albemarle Plantation residents who treat players like family and volunteer their services throughout tournament week.