The Frothecy and the Legend of Rang Duce

Numbers mean everything. They seldom lie. There are two numbers that you need to know about right now. The first is “1” and the second is “219.05.” When the Green Mountain Points Series points are unveiled this week these numbers will help solidify the Frothecy of 2011.

Months ago I predicted that 2011 would be the year that Dave Frothingham would stand atop the Green Mountain Points Series. With his 51 at Black Falls Gold to Gold, Frothy clinched a one-point win over Emmett Cosgrove at Black Falls V.

Emmett's been the hot name on tour after two close Money Game finishes and his one-disc dominance, but he couldn't hold off Frothy at Black Falls. Dave's combined 219.05 points will put him in first place in the Open Division standings, more than 11 points over reigning champ Johnny Betts.

During May's Sap Bucket Open IX we got to see Vermont's Super Card of Matt Idol, Johnny Betts, Dave Frothingham, Jeff Spring, and Chris Young. At that point there was no telling who would separate themselves from the group. It sure looks like Frothy has made his first step towards dominance.

But, “What about the Legend of Rang Duce?” you may be asking. No doubt, his is a long, strange story. After being forced out of AM 2 years ago, and probably prematurely, our own Rang Duce has had his share of success and struggle. He finished third in AM 1 last year, just barely losing out to Jim Conroy and our newest pro, Ian Thurston. Despite the close finish, Rang Duce couldn't manage to pull off tournament victory he chased all season.

2011 looks to be different for Rang Duce. Black Falls V marks his first tournament victory. In proper GMDGC fashion, he was welcomed with the familiar cries of “bagger” when he took down the rest of the field. Despite the peer pressure, Saturdays (and tournament Sundays) have been good to Rang Duce. With this week's unveiling of the points we'll see Rang Duce with a commanding 43 point lead over Jon Moorer and nearly a 100 point lead over Josh Wedel. Watch out AM 1. The first time the big man beats you, it stings a little...