By BEN FONG/For the Sentinel
EGG HARBOR TOWNSHIP — The regular season is now in the books, and the Thursday Ocean City Senior Golf League has officially entered its postseason.
The three-week, single-elimination playoff tournament got under way last week at Harbor Pines Golf Course, with golfers in both the A Flight and B Flight battling for a chance to advance toward their respective championships.
The opening round produced several close contests, including a dramatic finish in the A Flight.
Garth Moyle survived a thriller against Ben Fong after the two golfers battled to a 6-6 tie through 18 holes. The first tiebreaker could not separate the players, as they tied again. In the second tiebreaker, Moyle finally gained the advantage, defeating Fong and earning a spot in the next round.
Ron Venturi also advanced in the A Flight after defeating Bob Pierce 6-3. Venturi’s victory puts him into the next round as the playoff field continues to narrow.
Frank Mancini and Pete McInerney both advanced without having to play their opening-round matches, as their respective opponents forfeited. Both golfers move on to the next round and remain in contention for the A Flight championship.
The B Flight playoffs also produced some exciting competition.
Sam Malandra advanced after defeating Tom Gahr 7-6 in a closely contested match. Malandra’s victory sends him into the next round and keeps his championship hopes alive.
Tom Szkaradnik also survived a tight match, defeating Tony D’Ottavio 6-5 to advance.
Rick Schultz turned in a strong playoff performance against Mike Janel, winning 8-5 to earn his place in the next round.
Joe Sheridan delivered the most decisive victory of the opening round in either flight. Sheridan defeated Tom Visco 11-4, punching his ticket to the next round in impressive fashion.
With the first week of the three-week single-elimination tournament complete, the playoff fields have already been reduced, and the pressure will only increase as the remaining golfers battle for their place in the championship round.
The regular season may be over, but the most important golf of the year is just beginning. The next two weeks will determine the A Flight and B Flight champions of the 2026 Thursday Ocean City Senior Golf League, with each remaining match carrying the possibility of ending a season — or extending it for another week.
Golfers interested in joining the league may contact Al Malatesta at malatesta9088@gmail.com, John Blady at john@swimusa.com, or Ben Fong at ben.fongmeister@gmail.com.
for additional information.