Hunter George (H.G.) Weddington first played in the Mississippi Golf Association State Amateur in 1936.

    Seventy-six years later, Weddington will have another first at the State Am today. When the 97th State Amateur Championship opens today at Reunion Golf and Country Club, Weddington will hit a ceremonial first tee shot. It is a new tradition the MGA is starting. Weddington will hit the ceremonial first tee shot at 7:20 a.m. today on hole No. 1.

    Weddington, a member of Northwood Country Club, has won the State Am three times — 1939, 1947 and 1948. And since his first tournament in 1936, he has missed only a handful of events while serving in World War II.

    Weddington has also served as President of the MGA and has consistently supported amateur golf through the years.

    While hitting the honorary tee shot, he will be joined by family and friends.