SACRAMENTO, CA – As the chill and threat of sporadic showers lingered over MacKenzie Golf Course at Haggin Oaks this weekend, Matthew Sutherland of Carmichael, CA displayed an exceptional performance, finishing with a scorching 64. His combined two-day total of 13-under-par 131 has secured a three-shot lead, setting him apart as the player to watch as we head into Monday’s climactic final round of the 99th Annual California State Fair Golf Championship.
This isn’t the first time Sutherland has dazzled on the greens this summer. His resume for 2023 alone has been exemplary, with remarkable achievements like reaching the Final 16 in the U.S. Amateur, being the medalist in the U.S. Amateur Qualifying, and clinching victory in both the Sacramento County Amateur and the Sacramento City Championships. Additionally, his third-place tie in the Memorial Amateur further testifies to his consistent brilliance this season.
Behind Sutherland, there’s a tight contest brewing. Carlos Astiazaran from Tucson, AZ, stands at a total of 134 after firing a 67 in the second round, closely followed by Nick Woo of Novato, CA, who is just one stroke behind at 135. Michael Weaver of Fresno, CA, and Matt Cohn of San Francisco, CA, round up the top five, signaling an intriguing battle awaiting in the final 18 holes.
Current Standings:
Matthew Sutherland, Carmichael, CA: 67, 64 – Total: 131
Carlos Astiazaran, Tucson, AZ: 65, 67 – Total: 134
Nick Woo, Novato, CA: 64, 71 – Total: 135
Michael Weaver, Fresno, CA: 71, 65 – Total: 136
Matt Cohn, San Francisco, CA: 71, 66 – Total: 137
Last year’s champion Jaden Dumdumaya is back in 13th place after making the cut after a second round of 71.
The State Fair Men’s Amateur Championship, one of the West’s oldest and most respected amateur competitions, continues to live up to its reputation. This year, with the roster limited to 108 top players, the tournament is conducted over a span of three days with 54-hole stroke play format. Following the conclusion of the second round, the cut has been made to the leading 36 players and ties, ensuring a highly competitive final round.
With the stage set for an electrifying conclusion at the MacKenzie Golf Course on Monday, all eyes will undoubtedly be on Sutherland to see if he can maintain his momentum and capture yet another coveted title to his already impressive 2023 collection.
