Alexis Jones’ maiden voyage to the Division II state tournament has been a success, even if the Shelby freshman doesn’t think so.
Jones shot an opening-round 76 at The Ohio State University Golf Club’s Gray Course on Friday, good for a tie for sixth place. The two-day event concludes today.
“I know she’s not thrilled with the way she played, but I was very pleased,” Shelby coach Rene’ Burtscher said. “A 76 is a good score. She teed off on No. 10 and shot a 39 on the back, then turned around and shot a 37 on the front nine.”
Kansas Lakota’s Makayla Dull carded a 69, good for a one shot lead over Tippecanoe’s Lindsey Murray (70). Miami Valley’s Sarah Kolodzik (73) was third while Canton Central Catholic’s Michele Vlacovsky (74) was fourth and Chardon Notre Dame Cathedral Latin’s Reve Morris was fifth.
Jones, Dayton Chaminade Julienne’s Ellie Cronin, Huntington’s Shania Irvin and Cincinnati Indian Hill’s Pari Keller were tied for sixth.
“The conditions were ideal,” Burtscher said. “Alexis had some putts that were right there, but they just didn’t drop for her.
“But this being her first appearance at the state tournament, I think she has done a great job.”
In the Division III boys tournament, defending state champion Crestview was in fourth place after shooting a team total of 336.
Columbus Academy was in first with a 323, followed by Toledo Ottawa Hills (329) and Columbus Wellington School (335).
Ben Olewiler led the Cougars with an opening-round 78, good for a tie for sixth place. Josh Brooks (80) was tied for 12th and Bryce Lutz (81) was alone in 16th. Michael Staniford (97) was in 60th and Joe Stimpert (103) was tied for 68th.
Follow Curt Conrad on Twitter @curtjconrad.