In a dramatic finish to the 118th Vermont Amateur Championship, 17-year-old Lucas Politano emerged victorious after a tense four-person playoff, becoming the youngest champion since 1999.
The Otter Valley Union High School senior’s path to victory was not without its challenges, particularly during the playoff on the par-5 No. 18 hole at Burlington Country Club.
Politano’s second shot on the playoff hole found the deep rough, leaving him 170 yards from the green. Despite this setback, he maintained a positive outlook.
Reflecting on the moment, Politano said:
“The first thought I had was, ‘I couldn’t believe I just did that.’ Next thought, ‘We still have a chance at making birdie here.'”
With a remarkable display of skill, he executed a delicate shot that landed 20 feet from the pin, setting up a successful birdie attempt. His opponent, Walker Allen, narrowly missed his birdie putt, allowing Politano to clinch the title with a hug from his caddie. This win not only marked a personal achievement for Politano but also continued a family legacy, as his sister Mia won the women’s title in 2022.
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The tournament, affected by heavy rain and thunderstorms, was shortened from the usual 72 holes to 54. Politano, along with Allen, Michael Walsh, and Travis Russell, finished at 1-under 212, leading to the playoff.
Politano’s final round was a rollercoaster, beginning with a challenging front-nine 39 but finishing strong with a back-nine 33, including a critical birdie on the 18th to join the playoff.
In the playoff, Politano and Allen both birdied the first hole, while Walsh and Russell were eliminated with pars. On the second playoff hole, Politano’s adept shot from the rough, combined with Allen’s struggle from a bunker, ultimately secured Politano’s win.
Politano’s journey to the title was marked by resilience and focus, exemplified by his ability to overcome nerves and execute under pressure. His triumph adds his name to the Vermont Amateur trophy, a goal he shared with his sister. The Burlington Country Club also celebrated a victory, capturing the McCullough Cup for the lowest club score.
