2026 International Open – Round 1 Recap
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
The 2026 International Open roared to life on Thursday as the tournament debuted its Stableford format in dramatic fashion — and nobody embraced the fireworks quite like Jon Woitas.
Woitas delivered a first-round masterclass, piling up 37 points in what players and fans alike are already calling one of the cleanest rounds in International Open history. Aggressive lines, fearless putting, and pure momentum had him setting the pace early and never looking back.
Hot on his heels sits Kenton Maschmeyer with 32 points, keeping himself firmly in the hunt after a steady and powerful showing. Close behind is Alex Woitas, Jon’s younger brother, who posted a strong 30 points despite battling visible frustration (and later, alleged shoulder pain).
Former champion Brian Bettac reminded everyone why his name still carries weight around this tournament, collecting 29 points in a composed opening round. But Bettac wasn’t shy about his thoughts on the new format afterward:
“I remember when this event was stroke play. I feel that the event committee is going soft. These young players don’t know what it means to grind out a win over 72 holes.”
Veteran Richard Woitas quietly climbed the leaderboard with 28 points, tied with Mike Serna, who continues his strong all-around play this season.
Dustin Andrychuk sits solidly mid-field with 27 points, looking to rebound from a rough 2025 Harvest Cup campaign, while Justin Lopushinsky (26) and Jon Shapka (25) endured tougher days on the coast — particularly Shapka, who clearly struggled to find rhythm.
Further down the board, Brendin Serna posted 24 points, Mark Herman managed 23, and a visibly rattled Clark Melenka, released from custody just hours before tee time, limped in with 20 points.
Rounding out the field were Brayden Malica (18) and Jan Bettac (17), both looking for major bounce-back rounds on Friday.
Notably, Josh Woitas, who withdrew from the tournament Wednesday evening, was still on-site in an advisory role — and under strict supervision. Event officials confirmed he was limited to two beers throughout the day.
Mrytle Match Play Results
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Mike Serna def. Clark Melenka, 5&4 — an absolute dismantling
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Jon Woitas def. Alex Woitas, 3&2 — after Alex cited shoulder pain and a “lack of Nutrls available”
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Jon Shapka def. Brian Bettac, 1 up — settled by a dramatic putt-off in one of the best matches of the day
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Kenton Maschmeyer def. Richard Woitas, 7&6 — followed by heavy post-match taunting from Kenton
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Justin Lopushinsky def. Josh Woitas, 6&5 — Destroyed Josh
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Brendin Serna def. Jan Bettac, 2&1 — ending with Jan telling Brendin to “go f*** himself” on the 17th green
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Dustin Andrychuk def. Mark Herman, 2&1 — Fans Chirped Dustin in a wild match considering Herman’s broken hand
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Brayden Malica advanced with a bye – did nothing
