By Mike Lehman, TTU Sports Information

HOOVER, Ala. – The Tennessee Tech women's golf team knocked out the first round of the Hoover Invite at Hoover Country Club Monday afternoon, but due to the lack of sunlight, round two was called to a halt prior to finishing.

Following one full round of action, the Golden Eagles tied for 10th with Kennesaw State in the field of 14 teams, posting a round of 309. ULM led the field by a healthy margin, firing a 4-under 284 to lead by 11 strokes. Samford's Gabi Nicastro paced all individuals with 4-under 68.

For the purple and gold, it was sophomore Chloe Griffith delivering the top score of the first round, tying for 17th in the field of 91 golfers. The youngster produced a 2-over 74 in the opening round with two birdies and 12 pars. 

Just one shot back of her teammate was senior Reagan Stuke, carding a 75 to tie for 30th after one round. She ripped off five birdies in the trip around the links. Junior Sydney Branson turned in a 78 with two birdies while competing as an individual, tying for 55th overall.

Next on the leaderboard for the purple and gold was Cookeville native Lexus Julian, tying for 62nd with a 79. The youngster rolled off 14 pars, but really shined during the incomplete round two, firing her first collegiate ace on the 167-yard eighth hole. Rookie Kailey Lane ended the first round with an 81, making a birdie on the par-5 ninth.

Rounding out the Tech lineup, junior Kaydi Rhodes produced an 83 to tie for 85th. Competing as an individual, sophomore Lydia Baker completed the first round with a 94.

The second round will continue at 7:30 a.m. CT Tuesday morning with the third and final round set to follow immediately.

Photo by Michael Wade