RIO VERDE, Ariz. (February 27, 2022) – Senior
Lorenza Martinez led the way for the Loyola University Chicago women's golf team as the Ramblers wrapped up a three-day stay at the Rio Verde Invitational in Rio Verde, Ariz. today.
The Maroon & Gold totaled a final-round 315 to bring their team tally to 939 (304-320-315), good enough for a share of 14
th place alongside Western Michigan (322-311-306=939). Kennesaw State (286-296-283=865) surged to the team crown, with the Owls' Caitlyn Campbell (67-72-72=211) claiming individual medalist honors.
"This week was a little tough for us with how we played," Loyola head women's golf coach
Carly Werwie said. "I think when you have really good rounds and success like we had in Florida, coupled with some raised expectations at the end of the fall season, that we had a few mental mistakes rather than just trying to play our game and stay present with each shot. There were a couple short game shots that caused a few higher scores, but I'm confident as the season progresses we'll be better with those."
Martinez handed in the top round of the day by a Rambler at the Rio Verde Country Club (par 72, 6,001 yards). The Menomonee Falls, Wis. native totaled a team-best three birdies as she finished with a five-over-par 77 to end play as part of a tie for 53
rd with a 236 (76-83-77). Junior
Caroline Dayton was a stroke off the pace set by Martinez, handing in a six-over-par 78 as she closed the 54-hole event at 234 (78-78-78), tied for 47
th.
Sophomore
Abby Thielbar wrapped up the event as the top Rambler on the individual leaderboard, claiming 43
rd with a 232 (73-76-83) after a final-round 83. The freshman pairing of
Grace Suter and
Jolie Brochu each posted rounds of 80 today. Suter finished 71
st with a 240 (77-83-80), while Brochu shared 74
th at 243 (80-83-80).
"It's always great to be in warmer weather and compete to see what we need to work on," Werwie concluded. "We are close to putting it all together during our rounds and, as we keep playing, we'll gain the confidence and consistency to have those good rounds come together. We'll take away the positives for the week and be ready for our next tournament."
Loyola returns to action in just over two weeks, making its way to Dade City, Fla. for the Spring Break Shootout, March 14-15.
