The Western Kentucky University men’s golf team finished the first round of the Conference USA Championship in fifth place on April 27 in Texarkana, Arkansas. The Hilltoppers recorded a team score of one under par (287), while junior Rafe Blankenship tied for second individually with a four-under-par 68.
The team’s performance was marked by consistency, as they made the most pars of any squad during the opening round with a total of 62. They also tied for the best average on Par 3 holes, shooting an even three strokes per hole. Blankenship matched his career-best single-round score and tallied six birdies, tying for the most birdies among all competitors.
Other notable results included Trevor Drew’s even-par 72, placing him in a tie for twentieth. Gage Doyle posted a one-over-par 73 to tie for twenty-fifth and made par on fifteen holes—the second-highest total in the field. Will Easterlin shot two over par (74) to tie for thirtieth, while Joseph Agee finished at three over par (75), tying for forty-first place.
“Today was a solid start, I’m really proud of Rafe and the rounds he continues to put up,” said head coach Austin King. “He’s made some massive strides this spring and I’m excited to see what more he has in him these next few days. Everyone I know left some out there but everyone being in the game is an encouraging thing to see. We’ve got more work to do the next couple days but we’re in a good spot to start the week.”
The second round of competition will take place Tuesday morning at nine o’clock.
