Avid golfers look forward to the day they shoot below par, their first hole-in-one or that tricky shot that proves to beat their best friend in a friendly round on the course.

Golfers who play long enough look forward to what is commonly called shooting their age.

For some of the golfers who took to fairways and greens at Valley Grande Golf Course for the annual Master’s Games, shooting their age is probably nothing new.

“We had some really good golfers out here today and they played some good golf,” Selma Parks and Recreation Department director Elton Reece said. “The weather was great and the golf wasn’t bad either.”

Thirty golfers, in different age groups, took part in the event that proved to be a qualifier for the state Master’s Games in October. The top three finishers in each age group advance.

Golfers, ages 55 and older, are participating in the two-day event that began in Selma in 1991.

In the 60-64 age group, Albert Southall finished first with Jimmy Rice and Reece rounding out the top three. In the 65-69 group, Ray Hollingshead took top honors with Jesse Harris coming in second.

Gordon Cargill was first in the 70-74 age group with Karl Smith finishing second.

Louis Thomas was the top qualifier in the 75-79 age group, while John Lovett was first in the 80-84 age group with Bob Phillips and George Walker rounding on the three qualifiers.

Tommie Gilbert was the top qualifier in the women’s 60-64 age group, while Anne Braxton was the top qualifier in the 65-69 category.

The event will conclude Tuesday with the doubles competition beginning at 8 a.m.

“The course is in excellent condition,” Reece said. “The golfers are enjoying the course and playing well.”

The state tournament will be held in Trussville on Oct. 10 and 11.