Amateurs play for two spots

The coveted Jones Cup trophy and 12 months of bragging rights won’t be the only thing at stake when five-player teams representing Newport-Mesa’s four private golf clubs tee off today at 1 p.m. at Mesa Verde Country Club in Costa Mesa.

For while teams will compete in the team best gross ball match, three amateurs in each club’s lineup will be playing for two berths in a qualifying tournament for the Mercedes-Benz Championship.

The Mercedes-Benz Championship is Jan. 1-7 at Kapalua, Hawaii.

The qualifying tournament is scheduled Nov. 2-5 at Barton Creek in Austin, Texas.

The two amateurs (male or female) with the lowest gross over 18 holes today, will have their expenses paid by Mercedes-Benz for the qualifier, and, potentially, the championship, should they qualify.

Thus, amateurs will play out each hole today.

Players may also win a Mercedes-Benz by acing one of two designated hole-in-one holes.