Feb. 5, 2013
CORAL GABLES, Fla. — The University of Iowa women’s golf team finished eighth at the Hurricane Invitational at the Deering Bay Yacht and Country Club Tuesday. The Hawkeyes finished up the second round with a team total of 311 (+27) and fired a 313 (+29) in its final round. Iowa carded a 54-hole score of 927 (+75) placing eighth in a field of 16 teams.
“We have some real positives to take from this first tournament,” said head coach Megan Menzel.
Senior Kristi Cardwell came in with a 78 (+7) in her final round. Cardwell played steady throughout, posting 13 pars in her final round. Individually, Cardwell finished just three spots outside the top 10 as she tied for 13th with a 54-hole score of 224 (+11).
Freshman Amy Ihm put together a strong performance on the final day competing as an individual carding a 77 (+6). Ihm posted 13 pars and finished tied for 24th with a 54-hole score of 229 (+16).
“Kristi had a nice week with a top 15 finish in a tough field and Amy’s top 25 finish is a great sign for the future,” Menzel said.
Sophomore Shelby Phillips posted an 82 (+11) collecting seven pars and two birdies in her final round of action. Phillips tied for 36th individually.
English also posted a 78 (+7) in her final round of play. English struggled early on, but finished strong, paring the final eight holes. English placed tied for 46th with a 54-hole score of 236 (+23).
Freshman Briana Midkiff saved her best for last as she posted a 75 (+4) in the final round, her best 18-hole score of the tournament. Midkiff started off fast, recording two consecutive birdies to begin her round two under par. In total, Midkiff collected seven pars and four birdies during her final round.
Sophomore Nicole Rae had her best round of the tournament firing a 76 (+5) on the final day of play. Rae opened the round by firing 11 straight pars. Rae finished 73rd with a 54-hole score of 248 (+35).
Gianna DiGrazia came in with an 89 (+18) in her final round, collecting eight pars in the process. DiGrazia finished tied for 74th individually with a 54-hole score of 249 (+36).
“We will get back to work this week and get ready for our next tournament in Arizona,” Menzel said.
The Hawkeyes return to action on Feb. 24 at the Westbrook Spring Invitational in Phoenix, Ariz.