By Mike Lehman, TTU Sports Information
MUSCLE SHOALS, Ala. – The Tennessee Tech men's golf team turned in a strong first round of play at the Ohio Valley Conference Championships Monday afternoon, finishing fourth among the 11-team field in Muscle Shoals, Ala.
The Golden Eagles fired a 4-over 292 on the day, finishing just six strokes back of the leader, Jacksonville State. The Gamecocks posted a 286 at the Fighting Joe Course at The Shoals for the lead. Morehead State's Nick Wilkins led all scorers on Monday with a 3-under 69.
Tech senior Alexander Riddle was right on Wilkins' heels over the first 18 holes, tying for second place in the 55-man field with a 2-under 70. Freshman Will Brooks tied for eighth on the first day of his first career postseason action, compiling an even-par 72.
Next among the Tech finishers was junior Matthew Giles. While tying for 22nd, the veteran carded a 2-over 74. Officially named to the All-OVC Newcomer Team following the first round, rookie Bracton Womack capped his first OVC Championships action with a 76 to tie for 32nd.
Rounding out the Golden Eagle lineup was senior A.J. Wilkerson, who posted an 83 on the day.
Teams will kick off the second round of the OVC Championships with tee times beginning at 8:00 a.m. CT each day. The Golden Eagles will begin at 9:40 a.m. on Monday.
Photo by Dave Winder, Murray State Media Relations