Glen Strandberg
Sports Editor

There are certainly worse ways to spend a summer, but the tough question might lie in trying to find a better way to spend one than playing golf. Lots of it. And while weíre at it, lets throw in winning. Yeah, beat that.

Such is life for Andrew, Betsy and Maxton Kelly, who seem to be canvassing the entire state as they compete in various tournaments, and they ended the month of June with a series of top finishes.

The good times started on Friday, June 23, when 11 year-old Maxton played in the 2006 Westfield Junior MN PGA 12 and Under Championship. Actually, he did more than just play, he excelled.

At the end of the round, Maxton would be tied for the lead with a two-over par, 36, which meant he and Nick Kuchera of Eagan would square-off in a sudden-death playoff. It took three pressure-packed holes before Kuchera would gain the advantage, and Maxton would come away with a second place finish.

Maxton was a little surprised to have done so well, but the numbers speak for themselves. Heíll have another chance to win it all next year.

In other Kelly news, Betsy continued her stellar play from the high school golf season by qualifying for the Match Play Championship while competing at Golden Valley Country Club.

She punched her ticket by shooting an 81, and that tied her with Kelly Godwin of Centerville for the low round in the 13-18 age bracket.

Courtesy of her winning score, Betsy will now play in Morton, MN at Dacotah Ridge Golf Club on July 25, 26 and 27. Before then she will also take part in the Minnesota Junior Girlsí State Championship at Izatys in Onamia.

Considering the way her game is going, does she think she can win these events?

ìIf I can play well I hope I do,î she said.

Not to be outdone by his younger siblings, Andrew is also enjoying a summer of victories and qualifying.

On Monday, June 26, Andrew shot a 74 at Tannerís Brook Golf Club during a junior event and that landed him in the Kelly Position; otherwise known as first place.

Andrew also qualified for the Match Play Championship, which was a bit unexpected for him, but he feels good knowing that heís made the tournament.

ìI didnít know if I was going to qualify or not,î he said. ìIf I play my game (at Dacotah Ridge) Iíve got a chance.î

Until then it will be more golf for Andrew, Betsy and Maxton, and an unbeatable summer on the links.

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