On the last weekend of October, Tuusula Golf Club hosted the FDG Association’s championships, bringing together members of the association and golf enthusiasts from all over Finland. The two-day competition offered unforgettable moments for both players and spectators as the Finnish autumn displayed its best in bright yet chilly weather.
Day One: Two-Person Scramble
The event kicked off on Saturday with a scramble team competition sponsored by Intersport Jumbo, where FDG members formed two-person teams. The event wasn’t just a competition; it was a celebration that combined teamwork, strategy, and humor. In the scramble format, each player takes a tee shot, and the team chooses the better ball position to continue from together.
The competition took place on the picturesque autumn course of Tuusula Golf Club, known especially for its challenging back nine, which tests even the most experienced players. The autumn conditions added their own twist to the game, as dewy greens and cool air demanded precision play.
FDG teams faced off against teams formed by other players, and the atmosphere of the competition was supportive and warm from start to finish. Intersport Jumbo rewarded the winners with great prizes, and a total of 44 teams participated in the tournament. For FDG members, the event was also an important opportunity to build community and share their passion for golf with both new and experienced players.
Day Two: FDG Championship
On Sunday, the competition continued with the association’s internal championship, played in a stroke play format without handicaps. This was the highlight of the weekend, as the title of the association’s most important event of the year was at stake. The stakes were evident in the players’ focused expressions and meticulous preparation for every shot.
Johannes Siikonen’s Championship
The day culminated in Johannes Siikonen’s impressive performance, earning him the championship with a score of 79 strokes. In the challenging cold and windy conditions, Siikonen’s performance was balanced and convincing; he avoided major mistakes and made several precise approach shots that kept his score consistent throughout the round. Even a minor lapse on the 17th hole, resulting in a double bogey, did not shake Siikonen’s position as this year’s champion.
A tight battle for second and third place ensued behind Siikonen. Simo Kosunen claimed second place with 80 strokes, just one stroke behind the winner. Kosunen’s strong driving and reliable putting elevated him to the top, despite a few challenging holes adding strokes to his scorecard.
Third place was secured by Tero Peltola with 81 strokes. Peltola excelled particularly on par-3 holes, where his precision shone. Though the championship remained out of reach this time, his performance was still one of the best in the competition.
Side Competitions
In addition to the individual stroke play, members participated in a two-person Best Ball competition. Once again, Johannes Siikonen emerged victorious, paired with Jari Vihanne, with a score of 78 strokes. The runner-up team, captained by Simo Kosunen and Susanna Erkkilä, finished with 79 strokes. Impressively, Tero Peltola and Helena Skogström’s team claimed third place with 81 strokes. Skogström, a recent newcomer to golf, impressed throughout the weekend with remarkable drives and particularly on the greens, where several long putts found the hole.
The closest-to-the-pin competition was won by Johannes Siikonen on hole 2 with a distance of 3.20 meters, while the longest drive competition was shared by Simo Kosunen and Tony Siven, both hitting drives of identical length.
Tuusula Golf Club as the Venue
Tuusula Golf Club provided perfect facilities for the competition. Despite the autumn season, the course was in excellent condition, and the club staff received much praise for their organization. The warm atmosphere of the clubhouse and the delicious meals offered by the restaurant made the weekend memorable not only for players but also for spectators and family members.
Celebration of FDG Community
The championships were not just a sporting event but also a testament to the FDG community spirit. During the event, members had the opportunity to catch up, share their golfing experiences, and form new friendships. The association’s positive and encouraging spirit was especially evident during Saturday evening’s communal dinner, held at Krapihovi near the Tuusula golf course.
The weekend’s competitions were the perfect conclusion to the 2024 golf season. Johannes Siikonen was deservedly crowned champion, but all participants left as winners, spreading the joy and camaraderie of golf.
Looking Ahead
The 2024 FDG championships demonstrated that the association has a strong and active membership. Tuusula Golf Club proved to be an excellent venue choice, and many participants expressed hopes for the event to be held there again in the future. The association’s upcoming events are already eagerly anticipated, and the 2025 competition calendar is sure to be just as diverse and inspiring.
The championships served as a reminder of how golf can unite people and provide unforgettable experiences. Thank you to all participants and organizers – see you on the greens again!