Sadakata Claims Florida State Amateur Title
June 27, 1999
ORLANDO, Fla. - There was no drama at the 82nd Florida State Amateur Championship at Lake Nona Golf Club on Sunday.
When Tampa's Akio Sadakata rolled in his par putt on 18 for a final-round 72, he stood eight strokes ahead of the rest of the field.
"I'm proud of myself," the 20-year old Sadakata said. "This is the best I've ever played in a tournament."
After rounds of 67, 69 and 69, Sadakata led by seven strokes heading into the final round. Just wanting to continue playing his game, he made 3 birdies and 3 bogeys for a "conservative" 72.
"I played steady and smart," Sadakata said. "I didn't want to make any stupid mistakes."
Joe Alfieri of Lutz finished in second place after his final round 73 gave him a 3-under par 285.
"If I could have gotten it going early, I might have been able to push him," Alfieri said, "but I honestly didn't think there was a chance to put some heat on him. He's too good."
"He's so solid. He does everything well," said Gary Keymont who played in the final group with Sadakata. "He showed me every different type of shot." Longwood's Mike Freeman added, "It was a star-studded amateur field. There were no slackers here. He just played amazing golf."
Eighteen-year old Steve Genchi of Jupiter finished third with a 2-under par 286. Middlesburg's Josh McCumber and Freeman rounded out the top five.
Sadakata, a junior college All-American, will again play at Brevard Community College in Melbourne.
For his victory, Sadakata received a crystal vase and will have his name inscribed on the permanent Clarence Camp Championship Bowl.
Complete Results
