Layoff Doesn’t Hinder Turner in L.A. City Golf Tournament

Michael Turner had not competed for the Los Angeles City men’s golf championship since 1994, but his experience helped him win another title Sunday.

Turner, of Sherman Oaks, birdied the final two holes in the final round to defeat defending champion Tim Hogarth and Larry Salk by two strokes at Rancho Park Golf Course.

After previously winning in 1987 and ‘90, Turner, 40, became only the second three-time winner of the tournament. Bud Bradley won every other year from 1969-73.

“That’s pretty special for me,” said Turner, who plays at Woodland Hills Country Club. “It’s something I wanted to do for a while.”

Turner’s hopes were postponed the previous three years because the City championship was played the same week as the California State Amateur. This year’s Amateur will be contested next week, and Turner failed to qualify anyway.

Turner entered the final round one stroke behind Hogarth and Rick Sessinghaus of Burbank, but he shot even-par 71 and finished the tournament at two-under 286 while most of the other contenders struggled early and often.

“I know it’s hard to come out here and shoot under par on the final day,” Turner said. “I just wanted to keep on making pars until the final two holes, then go for it.”

Hogarth, who held a three-stroke lead after the first two rounds last weekend, was five over after 12 holes Sunday and was never in serious contention.

Sessinghaus fared even worse, finishing with a 77 and in a tie for eighth.

Lance Allred of Burbank eagled the final hole to earn a tie for fourth at 288 with three others.