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FAIRFIELD, Conn. History will be on many minds when the first golfer tees off at 7 a.m. Monday at the 77th Connecticut Open at Brooklawn Country Club in Fairfield. Defending champion Kyle Gallo returns to the field this year, hoping to win a record fifth Connecticut Open.
Gallo won in 1998, 2000, 2004 and 2010. Gallo and John Golden are the only men to win the Open four times. Momentum is on Gallo's side as he comes off a victory in the Massachusetts Open on June 30. Gallo tees off at 7:40 a.m.
The rest of the field of 129 golfers showcases an array of local competitors, including Greenwich pro Danny Balin. Balin is the featured instructor in Main Street Connect's "Golf Tip of the Week." He recently qualified for his second straight PGA Championship by setting the course record in his final round of the Professional National Championship in Hershey, Pa. Balin is set to tee off at 9:30 a.m.
Other notable local golfers in the opening round include Brian Murphy and John Murphy of Wilton, David Pastore of Greenwich, Bernie D'Amato of Weston and Greg Reilly of Darien.
The location adds a touch of history as well, as the Open takes place at Brooklawn for the first time in 20 years. The Connecticut Open has been held at Brooklawn in 1935, 1938, 1958, 1973 and 1991.
The Connecticut Open is free for spectators, who are encouraged to walk the course and watch the best professional and amateur golfers in the state. Food and beverages will be sold at the event. The Connecticut State Golf Association will have up-to-the-minute scores throughout the tournament.
Do you plan on attending the 77th Connecticut Open? Is there a local golfer you think will shine in the tournament? Start the discussion below!
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