Elite Performances and Spirited Competition at the Heart of Texas with Elite Team Tacky Saks Members Jessica Weese, Kevin Kiefer III, and Mark Chapalonis
March 17th-19th, Austin, Texas became the epicenter of the disc golf world, as Harvey Penick Golf Campus played host to the 2023 Disc Golf Pro Tour’s fourth stop, The Open at Austin presented by Lone Star Disc. The tournament featured fierce battles and electrifying performances from seasoned professionals and emerging talents alike.
A thrilling addition to the 2023 Disc Golf Pro Tour, the tournament attracted 169 MPO and FPO players who vied for victory. Neal Dambra, the tournament director, together with his assistant Jim Hudson, crafted a top-notch event that delighted spectators and posed an exhilarating challenge for players. More information about this remarkable tournament can be found at theopendgc.com.
Amid the competition, three members of the Elite Team Tacky Saks—Jessica Weese, Kevin Kiefer III, and Mark Chapalonis—demonstrated exceptional skill and resilience throughout the event. Each player’s journey through the tournament showcased their adaptability and grit, ultimately solidifying their status as formidable competitors and rising stars in the world of disc golf.
Jessica Weese, a prominent figure in the Women’s Pro Open, started the first round with a score of +3, advancing to an even par in the second round. In a triumphant finish, she achieved a -5 in the final round, tying for third place. Weese took to Facebook to share her gratitude and recount her experience: “Ace Run Productions did the coverage for me all weekend. Thank You All Very Much! I tried to make a comeback from Second card. It was a battle.”
Weese’s fierce commitment shone through on hole 17, where she faced a challenging long putt to save par. She described the moment: “I told myself never give up and keep trying! Bam, the putt goes in and we head to hole 18.” Despite falling just short of tying with Catrina Allen on the final hole, Weese secured a solid final round rating of -1011, concluding her post with, “Hit the rim and stayed to claim T3 with Missy! Good times and great battles.”
Paige Pierce (PDGA #29190), hailing from Pensacola, Florida, rose to triumph as the tournament’s champion, while Catrina Allen (PDGA #44184) from Sioux Falls, South Dakota, secured the esteemed runner-up position. Both professional disc golfers have impressive records, with Pierce being a PDGA member since 2006 and Allen since 2010. Pierce’s current rating stands at 971, and Allen’s is equal at 971. Ranked #2 and #3 respectively on the United States Tour, Pierce boasts 150 career wins from 334 events and earnings of $370,889.64, while Allen claims 180 career wins from 387 events and a total of $329,767.70 in earnings. Weese’s impressive performance highlighted her unwavering dedication and extraordinary skill in the sport with such strong competitors.
Meanwhile, Kevin Kiefer III and Mark Chapalonis delivered captivating and spirited performances. Despite facing considerable setbacks during the tournament, these two athletes exhibited immense potential, a never-say-die attitude, and a relentless resolve to overcome obstacles. Their steadfast commitment to pushing the limits and learning from each challenge spoke volumes about their character and the bright future that lies ahead for them in the sport.
Kiefer III, a tenacious competitor hailing from Florida, ultimately finished in 72nd place. Despite facing adversity, he remained steadfast and determined to bounce back. He expressed his appreciation for the support he received during the event on Instagram: “No excuses. Just played poorly. Onto Houston. HUGE thanks to Justin Lawless and his family for the hospitality this weekend… The disc golf community is a gem and it’s because of people like you.”
Mark Chapalonis, representing Athol, Massachusetts, completed the tournament in 74th position. Reflecting on his performance, he coined the term “fun-strating” to convey the balance between the enjoyment and frustration experienced throughout the event. Chapalonis elaborated, “It was a fun event but over the three rounds the course became frustrating to me… In the end, it was a good event and I can’t wait to compete there again!” Additionally, he acknowledged the role his Tacky Saks played in instilling confidence during the weekend.
Their remarkable blend of skill, perseverance, and passion for the sport sets them apart as they forge ahead on their journey. With a foundation of hard work and dedication, the sky is the limit for these talented players.
In the heat of the competition, Gannon Buhr (PDGA #75412) triumphed as the MPO victor, reinforcing his already illustrious career. A native of Urbandale, Iowa, this professional disc golfer has proudly held PDGA membership since 2015 and boasts an impressive current rating of 1041. Buhr’s standing in the United States Tour Rank is a commendable #4, with a record of 101 career events, now 26 remarkable wins, and accumulated earnings of $121,277.00. These achievements are a testament to the extraordinary talent that radiated from Buhr’s performance at The Open at Austin.
The Open at Austin has undoubtedly left a mark on the 2023 Disc Golf Pro Tour, and fans are eagerly awaiting the next thrilling chapter. As the tour moves forward, spectators can expect even more captivating performances and memorable moments from their favorite players and rising stars, like the members of the Elite Team Tacky Saks.
Jessica Weese’s inspiring ascent to third place, coupled with the unyielding determination exhibited by Kevin Kiefer III and Mark Chapalonis, epitomizes the passion, commitment, and resilience that characterize the disc golf community. As these exceptional athletes persist in pushing the sport’s boundaries, their accomplishments will undoubtedly motivate countless individuals to pursue their own disc golf dreams.
As the 2023 Disc Golf Pro Tour progresses, the excitement and anticipation will only continue to build. With each stop on the tour, new stories will unfold, and the disc golf world will bear witness to the emergence of new champions and unforgettable moments. The Open at Austin has set the stage for a thrilling season, and fans around the world can’t wait to see what comes next!
