Payson Roundup

One golfer with a precision swing has a chance to make Payson history next month.

A golf tournament, timed to coincide with Payson's 125th anniversary celebration, will give a lucky golfer the chance to take home a $5,000 prize.

The odds of winning, however, are long. The winner will have to make a hole-in-one on the Payson Golf Course's hole No. 5, a par three.

What makes hole No. 5 tough?

"It is a small green and it is kind of an odd pear-shape. The front is narrower than the back, so it doesn't have a big landing area," said Jim Dalgleish, an employee at the golf course.

At 145 yards, it is a short hole and golfers have struck a ball there with a single swing.

The $5,000 prize is sponsored by Git A Rope Trading Company.

The tournament is a scramble for foursomes.

"With a scramble, you just play the best shot, so even inexperienced golfers can have a good time. The fun is in the variety of shots," scramble coordinator Dave Swanson said.

The morning scramble includes refreshments for parched golfers on the 18-hole course. Lunch will be served after the scramble.

Entertainment is in the planning stages.

Foursomes have until Sept. 22 to sign up for the Friday morning scramble on Oct. 5. People who do not have a foursome may enter and will be matched for play.

Entry forms are available at the Payson Golf Course, The Payson Public Library, Chaparral Pines and Rim Golf Clubs or by calling Swanson at (928) 472-9815.

The cost is $80 per person, unless the golfer is a member of the Payson Golf Club, then the cost is $60.

The fee includes green fees and cart.

"It is a chance to support the Northern Gila County Historical Society, Swanson said.

"Just come out and have some fun."