06/08/2026
Howie's Heroes Capture Par 3 Invitational Title
The 2026 Somers National Par 3 Invitational delivered everything we hoped for—great golf, friendly competition, delicious food from Bistro on the Green, and a story that reminded us what makes our club community so special.
This year's champions, Howie's Heroes, finished at an impressive 8-under par to capture the tournament title. While the score was certainly remarkable, the story behind the victory made it even more meaningful.
The team was led by Hank Pietrani, a longtime friend of the late Howie Green. Hank and Howie shared a special friendship through golf and regularly played together in the Par 3 event alongside Howie's wife, Sandy. Following Howie's passing, Hank was unable to participate in last fall's tournament, but he was determined to return this year to honor his friend.
Hank assembled his own foursome and dedicated the team's participation to Howie's memory. In recognition of that tribute, the team proudly competed under the name "Howie's Heroes."
As if the tournament victory wasn't enough, Hank added another memorable moment to the day by sinking the tournament's 50-foot membership putt, earning a 2027 Somers National Membership and drawing cheers from everyone in attendance.
As Hank stood over the 50-foot putt, few could have imagined what would happen next. When the ball found the bottom of the cup, the crowd erupted. It was the perfect ending to a day dedicated to a friend who loved the game, loved this event, and loved the people who made Somers National feel like home.
Congratulations to Hank and his teammates on an outstanding performance and a well-deserved victory. More importantly, thank you for reminding us that golf is about much more than scores and trophies. It's about friendships, memories, and the people who leave a lasting impact on our lives.
We know Howie would have been smiling as he watched his heroes bring home the championship.
A congratulations to the winners and all participants!
Tournament Results
1st Place (-8)
🏆 Howie's Heroes
Hank Petrini
Alex Taft
Jeff Cramer
Jim Widman
2nd Place (-6) – The Putt Pirates
Laszlo Kalman
Beatrix Kalman
Lisa Regan
Rick Regan
3rd Place (-3) – The Mulligan Mafia
Luke Strnad
Walt Ryder
Tim Tupa
Ava Kelly
Closest to the Pin
🎯 Hole #8 – Paul Hochenberg (4'2")
🎯 Hole #13 – Jim Widman (4')