Steve Zychowski Wins Boff Invitational Over Top Players

Steve Zychowski of Mendham shot three-under-par 69-70-139 to win the annual Boff Invitational by two shots at Essex County Country Club in West Orange on Thursday, Oct. 13.

It was Zychowski’s biggest victory of note, considering runners-up included 2016 U.S. Mid-Amateur champion Stewart Hagestad of New York’s Deepdale and NJSGA Player of the Year Trevor Randolph of Arcola, who both shot 141. They are the top ranked amateurs in the Met area.

“It’s definitely up there with one of the best tournaments I’ve played, considering it was against such a great field,” said Zychowski, 25, who won the 2015 NJSGA Tournament of Club Champions and will defend that title on Tuesday at Crestmont Country Club in West Orange.

BOFF INVITIATIONAL LEADERBOARD

“I had not played a lot this summer because I’ve been busy with work, but recently I’ve been playing well,” said Zychowski, an analyst for a transfer pricing firm. “My ball-striking has been good, but lately, my putting is catching up to everything else and it’s a nice feeling.”

He carded nine birdies against six bogeys at the Boff.

“I got some birdies in the morning trying to get the right speed on the greens. I kept it pretty consistent in the afternoon. The course played pretty tough. I knew as long as I didn’t make any big numbers, I could keep it under par,” he said.

A week ago, Zychowski was runner-up at the Nassau Invitational, defeating Randolph in the semifinal, before losing on the final hole to European top amateur Connor O’Rourke of Ireland.

“After that, I came into the Boff with some confidence. “

Zychowski was runner-up in the State Amateur in 2014 and was third last year. He has qualified for four U.S. Amateurs and served on three NJSGA Compher Cup teams.

“Now, I wish the season was longer. I’m looking forward to defend my Tournament of Club Champions title on Tuesday.”