Local News
Orange Blossom Classic a success
PAT DELL
Published: January 5, 2013
SEBRING The annual Orange Blossom Classic state shuffleboard tournament, which has the distinction of being the most historic tournament in Florida, having begun in 1931, attracted 132 of the most competitive shufflers to Sebring for the two-day event, which ended Thursday.Published: January 5, 2013
The tournament went head-to-head with another tournament the Florida Shuffleboard Association sanctioned in Clearwater, but many of the top shuffleboard players in the state still made the trip to Sebring.
"I love Sebring's Orange Blossom," said Brandenton's Jerry Everett, who won the men's division, along with his partner Gene McCullough, who is also from Bradenton. "The drive across is pleasant and the people here are friendly and put on the best tournament."
Other professionals who attended Sebring echoed Everett's sentiments.
"People in Sebring run the finest tournament and the prize money is nice, too," said Sarasota's Mel Erb, who placed third in the men's division, along with fellow Sarasota resident David Kudro.
The Sarasota tandem of Freeman Gingerich and Henry Wagler placed second.
Total prize money for the shufflers was $3,321.50 after expenses. There was $2,124 for the men's division and $1,197.50 for the women.
"Everyone is happy with the prize money," said Tournament Director Lorraine Pollack of Avon Park.
Sebring is still looking for its first Orange Blossom Classic winner.
"I know I need to practice and compete more to have a chance at this level," said local pro Pat Dell. "I competed against a pro who finished fourth in an international competition and he sliced me apart like a surgeon. The funny thing is his team didn't make it to the semi-finals.
Locally, Avon Park's Dick Davis and Frostproof's Andy Kisacky placed fourth in the consolation bracket.
In the women's division, the Sebring duo of Judy Halloway and Floyann Frey placed fourth.
In the consolation bracket, Sebring's Ruth Tate and Bowling Green's Ruth Brown placed first; Avon Park's Martine Vermeire and Sebring's Betty Baumgartner placed third; and Sebring's Marti Nobel and Bowling Green's Mamie Morton placed fourth.
Bradenton's Judy Taylor and Vero Beach's Jeannie Andrews teamed up to win the women's division.
"From opening ceremonies to the final game, Sebring did an outstanding job," said Taylor, who is recognized by many as being the best female player in the state. "We all appreciate it and we'll be back."
Linda Marshman and Glenna Earle, both of Zephyrhills, placed second.
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