PIERRE – Aberdeen Central got off to a quick start and claimed the team championship during the Pierre Invitational on Tuesday. The Golden Eagles finished with a team score of 309, seven strokes better than runner-up Mitchell.
Central coach Kim Zimmerman said his players took advantage of ideal course conditions.
“The golf course was really wet and you could take aim at some of those greens and not worry about just where it’s going to end up, hit and roll off, or something like that,” Zimmerman said. “Really good golfers like it when it’s wet like that or soft. They can just go right at the flags and not worry too much.”
The Golden Eagles were led by Olivia Braun, who shot 67 to win medalist honors. It was the second time this season that the junior has been under par.
“You kind of get used to it. Her game kind of spoils you a little bit,” Zimmerman said, “because you don’t want to take it for granted. … She just was very consistent. She had a very good round today. Kept her scorecard clean with pars and birdies.”
Central’s Kyley Wirebaugh continued her strong spring, shooting a 74, good for third place.
“She hit 13 out of 14 fairways today,” Zimmerman said. “She’s putting the ball in play and giving herself some opportunities. … She’s been playing really well.”
Central’s Emma Dohrer finished seventh with a 77.
In a previous matchup with Mitchell, the Kernels led nearly the entire way before Central made a comeback. On Tuesday, the Golden Eagles played with the lead before Mitchell made a late push.
“The shoe was on the other foot today from that standpoint. … They have a very nice team, too,” Zimmerman said. “I can’t complain one bit about our team score. It’s an excellent team score again today, too.”
Central will host the Hub City Invitational on Thursday at Lee Park Golf Course. Other teams in the field include Aberdeen Roncalli, Watertown, Huron, Pierre, Mitchell, and Brookings.
To see complete results from the Pierre Invitational, click on the following link:
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