The CGA recently gathered after an already-too-long hiatus from golf to celebrate the 2008 season and its champions. The big trophies went to K.C. Budzik as Individual Champion, and to Budzik and Brett Southworth as Team Champions. Rob Burkley and Joe Barrett collected little trophies for their Touch 'Em All Tournament Championship at Shaker Run, and The Commash got one for his CGA Match Play Championship at Black Diamond. Budzik also claimed the 2008 Money Title, making him a unanimous selection as the 2008 CGA Player of the Year.
Budzik held on to 1 point lead over The Commash in the final week of the season to claim his first Individual Championship. After having Southie as a partner and finishing next to last in 2007, Budzie pulled Southie's name again in 2008 and this time they won it all -- the second time Budzie has done that. For Budzik, it was his 5th and 6th CGA Tiles -- 1 Individual Championship, 2 Team Titles, 2 CGA's and 1 TEA -- tying him with Eric Osborn for most in league history. He also became the first player to complete a career CGA Slam (Individual, Team and both majors).
Southie earned a CGA record 4th team title in 8 years, an amazing accomplishment. It was his 5th CGA Title overall. Perhaps even more impressive is the fact that Southie has won those four team titles with three different partners.
The TEA title was Burkley's second CGA major title, having won the TEA with Dan Sadd back in 2002, and the first for Smokin' Joe Barrett. The Commash's win at Black Diamond was his third major tournament win and his fourth entry on the Wall of Fame. Congratulations to K.C., Brett, Rob, Joe and Greg!
