Weber State Claims Victory at the Pizza Hut Lady Thunderbird Invitational
The Weber State Wildcats secured the team championship at the Pizza Hut Lady Thunderbird Invitational, held at Sunbrook Golf Club in St. George, Utah, finishing with a total score of 2-over par 866. The Southern Utah University (SUU) Women’s Golf team hosted the event, welcoming twelve teams to compete from March 7-9.
SUU Finishes Eighth, Gains Valuable Home Course Experience
The Southern Utah Thunderbirds finished tied for eighth place with a final score of +43. Head Coach Caylyn McKinlay noted the importance of the tournament for her team, stating, “It was fun to have all the teams arrive and compete. Congratulations to Weber State for winning the tournament and playing some good golf. Ellie played well for us. She had a quality second and third round, but we just have to be better as a team. We need to make better decisions to avoid some of the bigger numbers.”
Ellie Olsen led the Thunderbirds, tying for 44th place at +24. She demonstrated consistency with back-to-back rounds of 78. Kirsten Hall and Kiana Roddy both finished tied for 48th at +36, while Reece Bandemer posted a +33, highlighted by an opening-round 80. Siriporn (Orchid) Luangnam competed in the first two rounds but had to withdraw in the third. Taylyn Wilson, playing as an individual, carded a three-round total of 258.
Wildcats’ Dominance and Key Performances
Weber State’s victory was built on a strong final round of 1-over par 289. The Wildcats’ overall performance included a program record-tying 7-under par 281 on Saturday. Jade Gruher, Emily Song, and Cala Korman each shot 1-under par 71 on Sunday, contributing to the team’s success. Gruher tied for third place individually at 1-under par 215, while Song finished sixth at 2-over par 218, and Korman tied for eighth at 4-over par 220.
Looking Ahead: Red Rocks Invitational
The SUU Thunderbirds will quickly return to competition at the Red Rocks Invitational in Sedona, Arizona, from March 13-15. The event, hosted by Northern Arizona University, will take place at the Oak Creek Country Club. This provides another opportunity for the team to build momentum as the spring season progresses.
Did you grasp?
Weber State’s team score of 2-over par 866 at the Lady Thunderbird Invitational represents a significant achievement, showcasing their consistency and skill throughout the 54-hole event.
FAQ
Q: Where was the Pizza Hut Lady Thunderbird Invitational held?
A: The tournament was held at Sunbrook Golf Club in St. George, Utah.
Q: Who won the team championship?
A: Weber State University won the team championship.
Q: What is next for the SUU Women’s Golf team?
A: The SUU Thunderbirds will compete in the Red Rocks Invitational in Sedona, Arizona.
Q: How did Ellie Olsen perform for SUU?
A: Ellie Olsen led the Thunderbirds, finishing tied for 44th at +24.
Follow @SUUGolf on Twitter and Instagram and like the Southern Utah Golf page on Facebook for the latest updates.
To help support Thunderbirds athletics, consider making a donation today!
