Central women’s golf squad off to early Sail Classic lead

Central College

CEDAR FALLS–The Central College women’s golf team burst out of the blocks by grabbing a surprising 11-shot lead after the first round of the 10-team Sail Classic Friday.

The Dutch had three of the top six scores on the day at the par-72 Pheasant Ridge Golf Club. Junior Chelsey Shuey (Ames) led Central fired a career-best 78, leaving her second in the individual standings. Shuey topped her previous low by five strokes.

“Chelsey worked really hard over the summer,” coach Tim Wilkinson said. “It was great to see her play well and see the benefits of her hard work.”

Seniors Kelsey Van Tasell (Pella) and Taylor Hill (Treynor) followed with 79 and 80 respectively. Freshman Christine Ausman (Nevada) and junior Rachel Cassens (Stockton, Ill.), rounded out the varsity scoring, both shooting 85.

“We’re pleased with how we played collectively,” Wilkinson said. ““The weather was pretty nice, a little muggy, but overall conditions were pretty good.”

Wartburg and Loras are tied for second, sitting 11 strokes back with 333. Mara Simonson of Loras leads the individual standings with 75.

Central’s junior varsity squad is also competing and stands seventh at 368. Freshman Allison Kretzinger (Johnston) led the way, carding 88. Fellow freshmen Valorie Taylor (Harley, Iowa/Hartley-Melvin-Sanborn) and Molly Timmerman (Dubuque) were at 91 with Kayla Forlin (freshman, Chandler, Ariz/Hamilton) 98 and Ali Kallsen (sophomore, Hinton) at 102.

Competing as individuals, Jill Huffman (junior, Bloomington, Ill/Normal), Cierra Pulsa (freshman, Stronghurst, Ill./West Central) and Nichole Malott (junior, Tipton) shot 92, 93, and 95 respectively.

Saturday’s final round starts at 9 a.m.