Chesterton's Fischer picks up first Porter Am crown

VALPARAISO | A different emotional approach and a swing change helped reverse the fortunes for Chesterton native Chris Fischer.

Fischer carded a 77 Sunday at the Valparaiso Country Club to win his first Porter Am crown.

"I've put a lot of pressure on myself in the past, and things didn't work out so well," said Fischer, who entered the final round with a one-shot lead. "The mindset I carried into this tournament was to go out relaxed and play with some of my good friends."

In recent months, Fischer also employed a different approach on his swing, keeping the weight back on the left side. This move improved his back swing and helped him the hit the ball more squarely.

These two changes helped Fischer keep his cool during the final round. Fischer said he played holes 4 through 16 at 1-under.

"When the pressure started to creep in," he said, "I was able to still play with confidence."

Fischer carded his highest round of the tourney, but also found out on his next-to-last hole that none of his competition was close to par. Carl Kalinka, the 2009 champ and second-round leader this year, carded a 76 and was the runner-up at 297.

"I didn't have to force anything," he said. "I'm just so happy."

He's also pleased to now be part of the 57-year tradition of the event.

"It's a great field," Fischer said. "You've got guys like Chuck and Bill Welter who have won this tournament (a record six times each).

"It's a huge honor to have my name engraved on the trophy."