Putting together a team-record score of 276 over 18 holes at the Highland Park Golf Course on Monday, the Lee women’s golf team walked away with the BSC Southern Shootout championship for the fourth time in five appearances.
Feeling the pressure of the surging Lady Flames and their final 571 total, the University of the Cumberlands was forced to settle for second place (289-293 – 582). Jackson State was third (652).
Leading the parade to the championship trophy was senior Madison Alexander, who played remarkable golf in the 36-hole event.
After carding a 69 on Sunday, Alexander was even better in the second round, finishing with a 65 and a 134 total. It was her second career-medalist win.
Alexander went sailing past Centenary’s Jamie Wright, the first round leader. Wright settled for second place (68-68 – 136).
“Madison was spectacular this week, what a great tournament she played,” said Lee’s excited coach John Maupin. “You can see that the light bulb has gone off and she's playing with a lot of confidence.”
Alexander had plenty of help on this record-setting day. Freshman Caroline Moore earned a spot on the all-tournament team with rounds of 73-69 – 142. Bernadette Little improved her score by three strokes and turned in a 75-72 – 147, good enough for seventh place.
Freshman Sam Burrus helped lift the Lady Flames to the title with an impressive 70. The newcomer had an 81 on Sunday and finished at 151. “This was Sam’s first tournament since sitting out with and injury last week,” noted Maupin. Freshman Cailey Gino also recorded a 78-73 – 151.
“Today was just an all-around great day for our team,” concluded Maupin. “I am very proud of the effort from everyone. I thought we were very focused from the start and that made a big difference. It feels really good to come away with the win.”