The WKU Men’s Golf team finished the first round of the Argent Financial Classic, hosted by Louisiana Tech, tied for eighth place going into Monday’s second round. The team delivered a solid opening round, shooting a 4-over 292, placing them just one stroke outside the top five.
Freshman Rafe Blankenship led the way in his first appearance for WKU, posting an impressive 2-under 70, which positioned him near the top of the leaderboard. Nic Hofman and Gage Doyle, both tied for 29th, recorded 1-over 73s to keep themselves in striking distance of the top 20. Senior Stephen Warren shot a 4-over 76, while fellow newcomer Trevor Drew turned in a 5-over 77 in his WKU debut.
Notably, Blankenship posted three birdies and an eagle, marking his third collegiate career-best round. Doyle led the team with five birdies, contributing to WKU’s 14 total birdies for the day.
Head coach Austin King expressed optimism, saying, “We’re in the game and not in a bad spot after day one. Everyone had a lot of good moments, but we have plenty to clean up for the next two rounds. The greens are firm, and the wind is a factor, so patience and game management will be key.”
WKU looks ahead to round two of the tournament, with pairings yet to be announced for tomorrow morning.
Results – Team Round 1 1. Rice– 286
t-1. South Alabama– 286
3. Houston– 287
4. Louisiana– 288
5. Troy– 276
t-8. WKU– 292
Results–WKU Final t-5th. Rafe Blankenship – 70
t-30th. Gage Doyle– 73
t-30th. Nic Hofman– 73
t-67th. Stephen Warren– 76
t-76th. Trevor Drew– 77
