TIPTON — Yates Center golf coach Kevin Barnes began the day on Monday with a nervous feeling, not just because his team was preparing to participate in the state tournament, but also because it appeared the weather may prevent his team from playing.
“Monday’s forecast included a good chance of thunderstorms through most the day, but it ended up being a beautiful day in more ways than one,” Barnes said.
With the wonderful weather, the Wildcats put together an outstanding round of golf to finish fourth in the sand-greens tournament in Tipton.
The future is even more promising for the Wildcats, as their top three scorers will be back next season.
Junior Remy Wagner led the team. Wagner has been consistently the low scorer for Yates Center and didn’t disappoint on Monday.
Wagner shot an 84 to take fifth in the tournament, He was nine shots behind state champion Dylan Hollerich of Tipton.
“The boys all played (through) some ups and downs over the 18 holes, but finished strong,” Barnes said.
Sophomore Colin Bedell posted a 91 to earn a tie for 12th place.
Junior Jon Barnes also had a very good outing for the Wildcats. He tied for 12th in the field and finished with a 100.
Senior Charles Hess rounded out the scoring for Yates Center by shooting a 119 and taking 34th place.
Tipton won the team title with by scoring a 336. Yates Center used a 394 to edge Riley County by one stroke and secure fourth place.
“Tipton had a definite advantage playing (its) home course but our team was right in the thick of it battling for second and third place overall, but came up just a few strokes (short).”
With the finish caps a great season from the Wildcats and with three of their four golfers back next year, Barnes is very pleased with the outlook for his group.
“I am very proud of all (that) these players have accomplished this year,” Barnes said.
