Kyle Brey is youngest in U.S. Public Links tournament

          Kyle Brey, 15, of Farmingdale is the youngest entrant in the U.S. Amateur Public Links Championship, which begins today at Bandon Dunes Resort in Bandon Dunes, Oregon.

            Brey shot 1-under par through 36 holes on Bethpage Blue last month and was the medalist of the sectional qualifier. It was a proud moment for his parents, who found themselves suddenly having to get somewhat short-notice cross-country plane fares.

            Jim Liu, also 15, of Smithtown, the defending U.S. Junior Amateur champion, is in the field as well.

            Stroke play starts today and continues tomorrow, followed by five days of match play. The winner customarily receives an invitation to the Masters. Among those who have won this event, and played their way to Augusta, was Ralph Howe III of West Sayville, who is now a teaching pro in China.

            The U.S. Women’s Amateur Public Links is also being held at the same site this week. Among the entrants are Long Islanders Kelly Shon of Port Washington, Suzie Lee of East Northport and Annie Park of Levittown.

            We’ll have updates as the week goes along.