March 12, 2013
Opelika, Ala. – A strong final day for the University of Kentucky men’s golf team saw them post their best finish of the spring, tying for fifth at the Tiger Invitational at the Grand National, Lake Course in Opelika, Ala. The Wildcats tied for the lowest score over the 36 holes on Tuesday, carding back-to-back rounds of 9-over-par, 297 to finish 37-over for the tournament. UK began the day in 12th out of the 15-team field before jumping seven spots on the final day.
“This team had a character test today and passed it with excellence,” head coach Brian Craig said. “After a horrendous first round, we bounced back very admirably on an extremely difficult golf course. We made progress this week and I could not be prouder of my guys.”
Junior Stephen Powers recorded his second straight top-10 finish, placing tied for sixth at 6-over-par. Powers, who entered the day at 5-over, posted three birdies in round two on his way to a 1-over scorecard and played even par golf in the final round, which included five birdies to end the tournament at 6-over.
Junior Ben Stow placed in the top-20 for the second consecutive tournament, finishing tied for 14th at 8-over-par. Stow tallied five birdies in round two, carding a 2-over-par, 74. The Salisbury, England native saved his best round for last charting an even par final 18, including his second eagle of the invitational on the par-5 hole No. 14 to top off his afternoon.
“Hats off to Stephen Powers and Ben Stow for leading the team this week as well,” Craig added. “They both showed the kind of consistency that this team needs.”
Junior Cody Martin finished the invitational tied for 35th at 13-over-par. Martin was 3-over in round two and 5-over in the final round to conclude the tournament. Senior Chase Parker was tied for 41st and sophomore Will Bishop was tied for 46th at 14-over and 15-over, respectively. Senior Joseph Barr participated as an individual, finishing 79th.
The Wildcats have a quick turnaround as they travel to Statesboro, Ga., for the Schenkel Invitational, March 15-17. For more information on the University of Kentucky men’s golf team please visit UKathletics.com and follow on twitter @UKMensGolf.
Tiger Invitational
Opelika, Ala. – March 11-12
Grand National – Lake Course
Par: 72 – Yardage: 7,149
Kentucky Lineup
T6. Stephen Powers – 77 – 73 – 72 – 222 (+6)
T14. Ben Stow – 78 – 74 – 72 – 224 (+8)
T35. Cody Martin – 77 – 75 – 77 – 229 (+13)
T41. Chase Parker – 77 – 75 – 78 – 230 (+14)
T46. Will Bishop – 76 – 79 – 76 – 231 (+15)
*79. Joseph Barr – 84 – 84 – 84 – 252 (+36)
T5. Kentucky – 307 – 297 – 297 – 901 (+37)
