The Salem High golf team finished fifth as a team at the Class 4 state championship tournament in Mineral, Va., Monday. Broad Run won the team championship at the Cutalong course at the Tributer Resort, denying Blacksburg’s quest for a sixth straight Class 4 state championship.
There were 60 golfers and eight teams in the tournament, as the top two teams from each region qualified along with 12 individuals not on those teams. Practice rounds were cancelled on Sunday due to poor weather with the downpour of rain forcing teams to take on a challenging course semi-blind.
“Cutalong is a challenging championship layout that provided a tough test for a loaded field,” said Salem coach Blaine Hancock. “We were lucky to get to play a championship at such an amazing venue. The course and amenities at the resort are on another level.”
The Spartans shot a team score of 319 for fifth place. Broad Run had a 307 to win it, two strokes better than Jamestown. Hanover was next at 310 and Blacksburg was fourth at 316. Following Salem were Lafayette at 327, Atlee at 335 and Heritage High of Leesburg at 344.
“We’ve been working hard all year for this moment and we gave ourselves a chance,” said Hancock. “Scores were higher across the board with a difficult course and wet and windy conditions. Only 12 strokes separated first place and fifth place in a tightly contested championship.”
Salem was led by senior Ashnoor Kaur, who had been under the weather prior to the tournament. She battled through and posted a 72 even-par round to finish fourth overall.
“Ashnoor has been solid her entire career for the Spartans,” said Hancock. “She pushed through to get four birdies and an eagle on the day, posting an incredible score. She made us proud battling all around and playing with poise on a difficult course.”
Next up for the Spartans was freshman Chloe Collins who posted a six-over 78 to tie for 15th individually.
“Chloe has been phenomenal this entire year,” said Hancock. “Each week she just keeps getting better. She has a bright future ahead of her.”
Also scoring for the Spartans were sophomore JD Williamson with an 83 and junior Mike Bateman with an 86. Rounding out the lineup were junior Croix Bowen with an 87 and sophomore McKenzie Eversole with an 89.
“Both Croix and McKenzie have had great seasons this year and been big contributors to our team,” said Hancock. “This is a special group we have this season. They are talented players, but more importantly better individuals! They work hard and support one another. We have a great program and have many returning next year to build off the success from this season.”
Ashnoor, Chloe and McKenzie will advance to the Girls Zone qualifier next week on Tuesday, Oct. 20, at the Roanoke Country Club. They will be competing as individuals to advance to the Girls State Open Championship the following week.
