April 19, 2009

Round One Results

- Jack Belote fired a 69, his second lowest mark as a Tiger, to lead the University of Memphis golf team into a tie for fourth after one day of play at the 2009 Conference USA Men's Golf Championship. The tournament is being held at the Red Tail Golf Course, with UCF and the Central Florida Sports Commission serving as the hosts.

Belote recorded five birdies and two bogeys on his way to a 69, which left him in a tie for third individually. Brad Benjamin, competing in his final Conference USA Championship, made two birdies to offset two bogeys on his way to an even-par 72. He is currently in a tie for 18th. Brandon Bunn and Jordan Payne are tied for 27th after carding opening round 72's. Jeff Hall is in 41st after firing an opening round 76.

"Jack played really well today," said Tiger head coach Grant Robbins. "I think the way he played today will give him some confidence going into the rest of the week."

The Tigers posted a team score of 289, or one-over-par, on the first day and are currently in a tie for fourth.

"We are in good position after the first round," said Coach Robbins. "We need to post a good round tomorrow and get into contention going into the final round."

UCF's Blayne Barber and UAB's Zach Sucher both shot a four-under 68 and are tied for first place in the individual competition. With Barber leading the way and three others finishing under par, the Golden Knights lead the overall team standings after the first 18 holes with an overall nine-under 279. SMU (284) and UAB (286) round out the top-three in the team standings.

The 2009 Conference USA Men's Golf Championship will continue tomorrow, April 20, at the Red Tail Golf Club. Play is set to begin at 7:30 a.m. (CT). Follow all the action live via www.golfstat.com.