Rochester, NH – Josiah Hakala captured the 122nd New Hampshire Amateur Championship presented by Davis & Towle Insurance with support from Johnnie Walker title in dramatic fashion on Saturday, defeating longtime friend and fellow Challenge Cup competitor Ryan Scollins 2 & 1 in a back-and-forth 36-hole final at Rochester Country Club.
The highly anticipated final featured two of the state’s most consistent players, both familiar with each other’s games after years of competing side-by-side in team competitions.
“Ryan’s a phenomenal player,” said Hakala. “I’ve played with him for a while over the Challenge Cup circuit, so I knew today wasn’t going to be easy. Anytime you get into a final, it’s never going to be easy.”
The morning round started evenly, with neither player able to take firm control early. Scollins briefly held a 1 up lead through four holes, but Hakala quickly countered, and the match remained tight through the front nine.
“I got off to a little bit of a slow start. I think we were tied through nine,” Hakala said. “I went on a really good run at the end of the first round, and I think that’s really what turned the tide of the match. I got the lead, and I never let it back, and that’s kind of what I did all week. Once I got the lead, I played really well with it.”
Hakala carried a 2up lead into the second 18 and continued to apply pressure with steady ball-striking and poised course management. Scollins battled back, trimming the lead late in the round, but Hakala held firm. Hakala was able to capitalize on Rochester’s par-3, 7th hole twice today while Scollins found himself in challenging locations based on the hole location. The second time Hakala capitalized on it, he got to 2up over Scollins with only two holes left to play. A two-putt par on the 35th hole sealed the 2 & 1 victory and capped a stellar week of golf.
“I was really happy with the way I played today,” Hakala said. “There were a lot of difficult shots under pressure, but I was really happy with the way I executed.”
Beyond the trophy and the prestige, Hakala’s victory also secures a coveted spot in the U.S. Amateur Championship being held at The Olympic Club in San Francisco, CA, something he is eager to take on. He stated, “I think the best part about this week, as well as winning, is getting into the U.S. Amateur. I’ve played one USGA event before, I’m going to the U.S. Junior next week, and that will be my third. I’m really looking forward to playing against the best amateurs in the world.”
As for hoisting the New Hampshire Amateur trophy, Hakala summed it up simply saying, “It feels awesome to win. I can’t describe it right now, but it’s a great feeling.”
Not to be overlooked is the stellar performance put on all week by Ryan Scollins. Scollins, who plays for the Holy Cross Men’s Golf Team, kept his poise and composure throughout every match and even when he was down to Hakala late in the 36-hole final. He put the pressure on Hakala, even getting to 2up on the first 18 of the match, and showed great sportsmanship when his efforts fell just short.
Rochester Country Club provided a challenging stage for the 122nd New Hampshire Amateur Championship, showcasing its immaculate conditions throughout the entire week. The layout demanded precision and creativity, rewarding smart course management. The staff and membership at Rochester were gracious and welcoming hosts, delivering a first-class championship atmosphere and making the experience memorable for players and spectators.
NH Amateur | Match Play Bracket | Final Match
