MANCHESTER, Vt. — Lucas Politano closed the 120th Vermont Amateur with a dominant final round at Ekwanok Country Club, firing a tournament-low 5-under 65 on Thursday to secure his second state title in three years by a commanding 12 strokes.
What changed for local golfers
Politano, a product of Otter Valley Union High School and a standout at Rutgers University, surged past the field after a strong finish to his second round and never looked back. His closing 65 included six birdies and a single bogey, a performance that pulled him well ahead of the rest of the competitors and left little doubt who would lift the trophy.
After an opening-round even-par 70 on July 7, Politano climbed the leaderboard with a 66 in round two — marked by four birdies over the final six holes — and followed with a 1-over 71 in round three. His steady play over the final 18 holes put distance between him and his nearest challengers.
Final leaderboard highlights
Alex Leonard, who had led after the first day, finished alone in second at +12 (284). Walker Allen and Austin Giroux tied for third at +15 (285). A three-way tie for fifth featured Luke Russell, Garren Poirier and Evan Russell at +18 (288).
| Finish | Player | Club/Association | Rounds (par 70) | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Lucas Politano | Ralph Myhre | 70-66-71-65 | 272 |
| 2 | Alex Leonard | Lakeside | 69-68-73-74 | 284 |
| T3 | Walker Allen | Neshobe | 76-72-69-68 | 285 |
| T3 | Austin Giroux | Newport | 70-73-70-72 | 285 |
Context and local impact
Politano first won the Vermont Amateur two years earlier as the tournament's youngest champion since 1999, and his return to the top confirms his status among the state's leading amateur golfers. His consistent scoring — par or better on the overwhelming majority of holes through the final rounds — set him apart in a strong field that included several familiar names from Vermont clubs.
For local clubs and aspiring players, Politano's repeat title underscores the depth of talent developing in Vermont high schools and collegiate programs. His performance at Ekwanok also serves as a benchmark for competitors preparing for the state amateur in coming seasons.
- Tournament: 120th Vermont Amateur at Ekwanok Country Club (Par 70)
- Champion: Lucas Politano — 70-66-71-65 = 272
- Margin of victory: 12 strokes over second-place Alex Leonard
Official final results published by tournament organizers list the complete leaderboard and individual round scores. Club members and fans who followed the event at Ekwanok noted the calm, late-week conditions that allowed for low scoring on the closing day.
Coverage of the Vermont Amateur continues to draw attention from regional golf observers; Politano's win will be remembered as one of the more decisive championships in recent editions of the state tournament.
