Hawkeyes Extend Lead At Golfweek's Conference Challenge

Sept. 20, 2010

Round 2 Photo Gallery | Video Interview With V. India | Video Interview With M. Hankins

Burlington, IA — The University of Iowa men’s golf team improved their lead at Golfweek’s Conference Challenge to 19 strokes during Monday’s second round. The Hawkeyes fired a 285 (-3) in day two, bringing their 36-hole total to 553 (-23). Campbell and North Carolina State are tied for second with two-day totals of 572 (-4). Competition is being played on the par 72 Spirit Hollow Golf Course in Burlington, IA.

“I felt like we played a pretty tough round today,” said Head Coach Mark Hankins. “We got off to a shaky start, but we had five guys in the ball game all day today. I’m pleased with that performance from the guys. Tomorrow we’re going to go out and try to win those simple 18 holes. If we can do that we’ll be in a good spot.”

Senior Vince India’s second round of 66 (-6) moved him into first place with a total score of 136 (-8). The Deerfield, IL, native recorded eight birdies on the day, including three straight on 16, 17 and 18.

“I just wasn’t putting myself in trouble today,” said India. “I kept the ball in play and when I hit some shots close, I made the putts which was nice. I got the putter rolling today and when that goes you’re going to get a couple birdies.”

Brad Hopfinger is tied for second place with a score of 137 (-7). The senior carded an even par second round after firing an opening round 65 (-7). Chris Brant’s 75 (+3) brought his 36-hole total to 139 (-5) as the junior is tied for fifth. Junior Barrett Kelpin is tied for 36th after a 78 (+6) second round brought his total to 147 (+3). Additionally, Brad George is tied for 40th with a score of 148 (+4). The junior carded a second round at even par 72.

Golfweek’s Conference Challenge will conclude Tuesday morning with a shotgun start at 8:30 a.m. (CT). For extensive coverage of the Golfweek Conference Challenge on golfweek.com, click HERE

“We’re going to go out there with our individual goals and try and shoot the best team score that we possibly can,” added India. “Hopefully that’ll keep us on top.”

Team Results
1. IOWA 268-285=553 (-23)

2. Campbell 289-283=572 (-4)
North Carolina State 283-289=572 (-4)
4. New Mexico 288-285=573 (-3)
Baylor 285-288=573 (-3)
6. Southeastern Louisiana 285-297=582 (+6)
7. San Francisco 292-291=583 (+7)
8. Liberty 289-295=584 (+8)
9. Middle Tennessee St. 294-291=585 (+9)
10. Eastern Michigan 298-288=586 (+10)
11. Nevada 299-290=589 (+13)
12. UC-Irvine 297-298=595 (+19)
13. East Carolina 290-307=597 (+21)
14. Furman 300-303=603 (+27)
15. VCU 306-301=607 (+31)

Individual Results – Par 72 (Top 3 + Iowa)
1. Vince India (UI) 70-66=136 (-8)
2. Brad Hopfinger (UI) 65-72=137 (-7)

Scott Smith (Nevada) 68-69=137 (-7)
T5. Chris Brant (UI) 64-75=139 (-5)
T36. Barrett Kelpin (UI) 69-78=147 (+3)
T40. Brad George (UI) 76-72=148 (+4)