Through the rain, wind and mud the Dragon boys golfers played their district tournament at Bald Mountain, finishing a close second behind Rochester Adams 300 to 296.
The placing means the boys will advance to the regional tournament which takes place at Bouder Point Country Club in Oxford and Orion is ready for the challenge. Their top players have started to truly shine in the latter parts of the season, including a score so low Head Coach Monty Gallaher said it was the lowest he’d seen from a high schooler.
‘These guys probably average 35 or 36 on a nine hole, but (junior Mason Gorris) did a 31 last week in a league tournament,? he said. ‘He won the district tournament individually.?
Following Gorris was junior Alex Waelchli in fourth place overall with a 74. Sophomore Griffin Beeler finished with a 77 and senior captain Tyler Draggoo shot a 78.
Gallaher acknowledged the rain would hinder the boy’s performance, but said the low scores came from the intense focus his top players have developed.
‘Gorris was obviously very focused – he played well all day,? said Gallaher. ‘Most of the day he was two under par, starting with a birdie on his first two holes. The weather just doesn’t distract them much. Both Waelchli and Gorris were well below par on a crappy day and that’s a testament to their ability.?
Gallaher said he was very proud of his team, largely due to their long season which started without a hitch thanks to the untimely warm weather.
As for Boulder Pointe, Gallaher said the scores will likely be higher due to the courses difficulty. He added this would allow for the ‘cream? to rise to the top in what he called ‘probably the most difficult regional in the state.?
‘Everyone is very good and at least three or four of the top teams in the state will be there.?
The regional tournament is on June 7 at 9 a.m. though this time is subject to change.