UCLA men’s golf places fourth in Las Vegas collegiate masters
By Doug Gadsby
March 10, 2014 12:19 a.m.
Thousands of visitors make the journey to Sin City each week in the hope that they will win big after throwing down their money but, in practice, occasions where the house doesn’t win are few and far between.
UCLA men’s golfers experienced the reality of this first hand this weekend, finishing with a share of fourth place and 11 shots behind hosts and winners UNLV in the Southern Highlands Collegiate Masters in Las Vegas.
The masters event lived up to the high standards set by its professional counterpart, and, with the competitors tasked with navigating a standard professional course, sub-par rounds were scarce.
“It was a great experience because it really tested each aspect of our game,” said sophomore Lorens Chan, who tied for 42nd at 229 (+13).“One bad shot anywhere could be devastating.”
The No. 22 Bruins were, at the very least, incredibly consistent, shooting three consecutive rounds of 299 (+11) on their way to a total of 897 (+33), but it wasn’t quite enough to secure the team the victory that appeared well within their reach midway through the final day’s play.
“We started the final day six shots off the lead and we all knew we had a chance to win the tournament,” Chan said. “I think, as a team, if we can clean up a few shots here and there that can save us a shot or two a round, then a win isn’t far away.”
Sophomore Jonathan Garrick held the lead individually with two holes to play, but his challenge faded, seeing him finish tied for second at 219 (+3), two shots behind Stanford’s Patrick Rodgers.
Junior Matt Pinizzotto was the second-highest placed Bruin, with an effort of 226 (+10), giving him a share of 26th position.
The other UCLA starters, junior Jay Hwang and senior Anton Arboleda, ended with totals of 231 (+15) and 232 (+16) respectively.
The Bruins also trailed No. 2 Oklahoma State and No. 8 Stanford, who tied for second at 888 (+24), and were level with No. 1 Alabama.
“It’s one of the strongest tournaments in the nation, and to put ourselves in contention with the best teams means a lot,” Chan said. “It gives us a lot of confidence heading into our next few events.”
Men’s golf has two weeks to prepare for their next competition at The Floridian in Palm City, Florida, starting on March 24.
Compiled by Doug Gadsby, Bruin Sports contributor.
