March 13, 2012

Final Results

The University of Montana golf team battled tough competition and tougher winds to climb the ladder in the third round of the Fresno State Lexus Classic in Fresno, Calif., Tuesday. The Griz moved up three spots after their opening round to finish the tournament in ninth place.

Montana (318-305-314--937) struggled in the first round with three players shooting above 80. However, the Griz came back in round two with four golfers besting their first round efforts.

Montana continued its climb in the third and final round overtaking Columbia, Santa Clara and Boise State in the standings, but tough conditions halted Montana's ascent when high winds started to pick up in the afternoon. Montana combined for 10 bogeys and 2 double bogeys in the final five holes. The winds seemed to affect everyone in the field, however, as Montana was able to hold on to ninth place.

"The last five holes played really difficult," said coach Emily Milberger. "It was a hard fought battle right to the end."

Freshman Tara Green(83-74-73--230), after shooting 83 in the opening round, continued to build off her round two score of 74. Green shot 73 in the final round to lead the Griz. Green finished the tournament tied in 20th place.

CSU Fullerton had a third -round surge to overtake San Jose State for the team title but it was San Jose State's Madeleine Ziegert who took home top individual honors. Zeigert finished the tournament one-under-par shooting 70-72-73--215.

"This tournament had some tough competition," continued Milberger. "I'm proud of how the girls battled though.

"We showed a lot of maturity on the course, and I think we learned a lot."

The Griz will travel back to California Mar. 26-27 for the UC Irvine Anteater Invitational.