Francisco “Ceko” Cupp absolutely shredded the Section 2 state qualifier, dropping a 4-under-par 140 to take medalist honors. But honestly, the Saratoga Springs sophomore was way more fired up about getting his entire crew to the state tournament. He made it clear, “Medalist is cool, but it was just more focused on the team aspect, trying to get more of us on the states bus.” That’s the kind of leadership you love to see, especially when it means Cupp plus three other Blue Streaks are heading to states.
Cupp Ends a Reign, Saratoga Springs Flexes
Cupp didn’t just win it, he ended the two-year medalist reign of Ichabod Crane senior Tanner LaTorre, finishing five strokes ahead after 36 holes. Cupp’s 4-under 140 was a statement, but the real talk in the clubhouse was all about Saratoga Springs. Elliot Meyers (151), Michael Hakewell (155), and Matthew Nawrot (156) are all locked in, joining Cupp on that state tournament bus. Four guys from one school, that’s just insane! Cupp himself knows the state course pretty well too, saying he’s played four tournament rounds there and is “looking forward to that. It’s going to be a lot of fun.” Dude’s been to states twice already, finishing 42nd as an eighth-grader and an impressive fourth last season. He knows what’s up.
LaTorre’s Fight and the Final Berth Drama
Even with Cupp’s win, Tanner LaTorre put up a serious fight. He shot a 1-under 71 on Wednesday and pulled within three strokes of Cupp a couple of times, even nailing an eagle on the par-5 seventh. LaTorre, who’s off to the University of Rhode Island next year, admitted his putting wasn’t quite there, but he’s still heading to states for his fourth trip. “I tried my hardest to try and catch Ceko, but my putting was not it today,” LaTorre said. “I think I played well. It was just some things that didn’t go my way, but whatever, I qualified, and that’s all that matters.” You gotta respect that mindset. Elsewhere, the drama for the final state berth was absolutely wild. Nicky Jadav of Shaker snatched the spot in a playoff, beating Chase Pfeiffenberger of Guilderland on the first hole. Ryden Klatt of Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake (149), Matthew Salvadore of Mechanicville (149), and Tyler Bowers of Shenendehowa (150) also punched their tickets.
What’s Next: Mill Creek Awaits
So, what’s next for Cupp, LaTorre, and the rest of the qualifiers? They’re all heading to the Mill Creek Golf Club in Churchville on June 6 and 7 for the state tournament. Cupp’s got experience there, and his whole Saratoga Springs crew is riding high. LaTorre’s a seasoned veteran with a bunch of trophies from other events, so he’s definitely going to be a factor. It’s set to be an absolute showdown, and after seeing Cupp’s performance and the team energy from Saratoga Springs, you know they’re coming to make some noise. Get ready for June, because this is gonna be good!
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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