Erfurth, Heckel shoot age in PGA's senior series

Writing from Chicago

Tuesday, January 31, 2012

Illinois Golf Hall of Famer Bill Erfurth and Steve Heckel, owner of Crab Orchard Golf Club in downstate Carterville, proved in the PGA’s recent Quarter Century Club Championship that age is only a number.

Heckel shot his age – 67 – by scattering six birdies in the opening round, and birdied four of his last five holes to close with a 71 for 138 at PGA Golf Club’s Wanamaker Course in Port St. Lucie, Fla., to win the 65-through 69 division of the tournament.

Erfurth, ageless though his driver’s license says 82, totaled 151 thanks to rounds of 74 and 77 to share first place in the Half-Century competition with Nunzio Ciampi, of Palm City, Fla. Each had won the title before, Erfurth two years ago, and darkness fell before a playoff could take place. They were named co-champions.

Erfurth’s rounds also tied him with Paul Kelly for first in the 80-84 age bracket, that category earning him $415. Heckel’s haul was $3,100, while mini-tour founder Jerry Tucker, who got his start in golf when Heckel gave him a job at Crab Orchard, pulled in $3,300 for capturing the 60-64 bracket.

– Tim Cronin