Lucas Politano Claims Second Vermont Amateur Title

Politano Delivers a Record‑Breaking Performance

At Ekwanok Country Club, the Rutgers standout posted a tournament‑low 5‑under 65 in the final round, securing a 12‑shot margin over the field. The round featured six birdies, 11 pars and a solitary bogey on hole 17, culminating a week of steady play. Politano’s total of 272 (−8) eclipsed the previous leaderboard best, marking his second state crown in three years. The victory also makes him the youngest champion since 1999, cementing his ascent on the amateur circuit.

His journey to the title began with an opening 70, followed by a blistering 66 that climbed him to the top after the second round. A third‑round 71 kept him three strokes ahead of Day 1 leader Alex Leonard, setting up a decisive closing stretch. The final round’s low score not only sealed the championship but also set a new benchmark for future competitors.

Key Numbers from the Final Leaderboard

Lucas Politano (Ralph Myhre) closed at 272, a total that dwarfed the next best by 12 strokes. Alex Leonard (Lakeside) finished third at 284, three strokes behind Politano and six ahead of the next competitor. Walker Allen (Neshobe) and Austin Giroux (Newport) shared third place at 285, while Luke Russell, Garren Poirier and Evan Russell tied for fifth at 288. The scores reflect a tightly packed field beyond the top three, with only a few golfers breaking the 290 mark.

Walker Allen’s 69‑68 finish during Thursday’s 36‑hole playoff was enough for a tie‑for‑third spot. Luke Russell (71‑71‑71‑75), Garren Poirier (72‑68‑71‑77) and Evan Russell (71‑69‑74‑74) each posted 8‑over totals, securing the fifth‑place group. The leaderboard also listed several other notable performances, including William Mallia’s 290 and Mathew Smith’s 292, highlighting the depth of talent in the event.

Context and Future Outlook

Politano’s back‑to‑back titles underscore a rapid rise in New England amateur golf. After emerging from a four‑person playoff as the youngest champion in over two decades, his consistent scoring across four rounds signals a player ready for college and potentially professional competition. The Rutgers program gains a standout recruit, and regional promoters hope to build on this momentum for future Vermont Amateur events. With a field of more than 50 participants, the tournament continues to showcase emerging talent across the state.

The 120th Vermont Amateur not only celebrated Politano’s achievement but also highlighted the competitive standard at Ekwanok Country Club, a par‑70 course that proved challenging for even the best players. As golfers head into the summer season, the benchmark set by a 5‑under 65 final round will likely influence strategies at upcoming regional tournaments. This win positions Politano as a name to watch in both collegiate and national amateur circles.