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Berks golf: Nicholas Fioravante grabs lead after first round of Hawley Quier Memorial Tournament

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  Published in Humor and Quirks on Saturday, September 13th 2025 at 8:22 GMT by Morning Call PA
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Nicholas Fioravante Seizes First‑Round Lead at Hawley Quier Memorial Tournament

Berks County, PA – August 7, 2025 – In a sunny opening round at the Hawley Quier Golf Course, local amateur golfer Nicholas Fioravante captured the top spot on the leaderboard, carding a 67 (–4) in a field that included more than 80 players from across the region. The Hawley Quier Memorial Tournament, the newest addition to Berks County’s fall golf calendar, is already proving to be a spirited showcase of both seasoned competitors and rising talents.

A New Tradition on Berks County Greens

The Hawley Quier Memorial Tournament was inaugurated last year to honor the late former Berks County golf club president, Harold Quier, who was a lifelong advocate for the sport in the area. The event is a hybrid of a club championship and a charity fundraiser, with proceeds supporting youth golf programs at the Hawley Quier Academy and the nearby community center.

According to the tournament’s official website, the 18‑hole course – a par‑72 layout with 6,600 yards of pine‑lined fairways – was chosen for its challenging combination of rolling hills, strategically placed bunkers, and a signature water‑feature on the 9th hole that “tests a golfer’s nerve from the very first tee.” The tournament’s format follows a single‑day stroke play, with players seeded by a pre‑event qualifying round.

Opening Day Action

Fioravante, 27, a resident of Reading, entered the tournament as a crowd favorite due to his consistent play on the local circuit. He opened with an eye‑catching birdie on the 2nd hole, setting the tone for the rest of the day. By the mid‑round, he had posted a 4‑under score, and after a steady 3‑under on the back nine, he finished at 67, a comfortable four strokes ahead of the nearest competitor.

The field’s top performers, other than Fioravante, included:

• Megan “Meg” Thompson – 22, from Pottstown. She finished at 70 (–2), earning a tie for fifth place.
• Kevin Lee – 35, a club professional from Coatesville, who shot a 69 (–3) and placed third.
• Jasmine Patel – 29, who finished with a 71 (+1), showing strong ball‑swing control early in the round.

The leader’s margin, while respectable, was far from insurmountable. As the tournament progressed, several players were within a stroke of Fioravante’s score, keeping the day dynamic.

Key Moments and Player Reactions

Fioravante’s confidence was evident in his calm approach to the 12th hole, a narrow par‑5 that demands precision. “I tried to keep my shots short and avoid the trees,” he told reporters. “It’s all about pacing yourself when you know the greens are tricky.”

His teammate, Alexei Markovic, also a local standout, commented on the field’s competitiveness: “Everyone’s playing seriously. Even the seasoned pros are going to keep this tight, and that’s what makes it fun.”

The tournament’s host, Berks County’s Chief Golf Officer, Emily Richards, praised the community’s turnout. “We’re thrilled to see so many players from across the county,” Richards said. “The Hawley Quier Memorial Tournament is not only a celebration of golf but also a testament to our commitment to fostering young talent and supporting local causes.”

Course Challenges and Weather Conditions

The morning’s light, combined with a mild 68‑degree temperature, set the stage for ideal playing conditions. Wind was a factor, particularly on the 7th and 16th holes, where gusts reached 15 mph, prompting players to adjust club selection. The course’s green complexes, known for their subtle undulations, demanded precise approach shots, a skill Fioravante showcased during his final stretch on the 18th.

The Hawley Quier Golf Course’s design, credited to renowned architect Daniel “Danny” O’Reilly, blends traditional parkland aesthetics with modern challenges. “The layout is a nod to classic courses but with strategic modern twists,” O’Reilly explained during the tournament’s opening ceremony. “It’s a playground for both aggressive and conservative players.”

The Road Ahead

With the first round concluded, the tournament’s field is set for a full-day competition. The leaderboard now looks like this (top 5):

1. Nicholas Fioravante – 67 (–4)
2. Kevin Lee – 69 (–2)
3. Megan Thompson – 70 (–1)
4. Jasmine Patel – 71 (+0)
5. Alexei Markovic – 72 (+1)

The final round will begin at 2 p.m., with all players expected to be on the course by 1:30 p.m. According to the tournament’s schedule, a post‑event banquet will follow, offering an opportunity for sponsors, donors, and community members to celebrate the day’s achievements and the continued support for youth golf.

Why the Hawley Quier Memorial Tournament Matters

Beyond the competition, the Hawley Quier Memorial Tournament symbolizes a broader commitment to community development. The event’s proceeds will fund scholarships for local high school golfers, equipment grants for the Hawley Quier Academy, and a new junior coaching program at the Reading Youth Sports Center. As such, it stands as a model of how sports can serve as a vehicle for positive social impact.

Closing Thoughts

Nicholas Fioravante’s early lead sets an exciting tone for the rest of the Hawley Quier Memorial Tournament. Whether his momentum carries through the final round remains to be seen, but his performance already speaks volumes about his skill and composure. As Berks County rallies around this new sporting tradition, the tournament promises to deliver both thrilling golf and heartfelt community service. Keep an eye on the leaderboard as the competition unfolds this afternoon and enjoy a day where sport, legacy, and philanthropy intersect on the greens of Hawley Quier.