BLACKSHEAR — Mackenzie Connell’s two-underpar medalist round of 70 helped lead defending Class AA state champion Pierce County to the five-team Area 2 title here Tuesday at the Okefenokee Country Club.
“We are excited to be Area champs for the 10th year in a row,” said head coach Stuart Stipe. “These girls work really hard and are very deserving. Okefenokee Country Club was the perfect host.
“The course was in great shape and the staff was very hospitable. The Okefenokee Ladies Golf Association played a part in the welcoming party. The Pierce County Lady Bears are honored to call OCC home.”
Connell shot 34-36 on her tour around the links recording three birdies on each side. She finished seven shots ahead of runner-up Maya Lilj-Vazquez (37-4077), the lone representative for Savannah Arts Academy.
“Mackenzie’s low medalist round adds to an already decorated career and was special to watch,” said head coach Stuart Stipe. “The way she responded to a double- bogey and two separate bogies was impressive. It speaks to her game and her character.”
PCHS teammate Mollie Kate Dixon posted 37-42-79 recording the only other round under 80 in the field of 19 players. A total of 12 players shot 100 or better with the high round double par 144.
“Mollie Kate shot her lowest competitive round with a double on the last hole,” said Stipe. “She is starting to see the fruits of her labor and that is rewarding to watch.” The Lady Bears posted a 149 team score to win the title by 44 shots over Burke County (193). Appling County shot 214 earning the third bid from the Area tournament.
Each of the four Area tournaments will send three respresentatives for a 12team finals Also participating were Crisp County (244) and Davidson Fine Arts (251). Tattnall County and Cook joined SAA with just one representative.
Brooke Dixon posted 49-45-94 with a birdie to finish fifth. Belle Sinclair shot 45-50-95 placing sixth.
“Belle and Brooke both faced adversity and our team is better because of it,” added Stipe. “They both have enough pride to motivate them as we start preparation for the state tournament.”
The two-day AA girls’ tournament will be played Monday, May 19 and Tuesday, May 20 at Maple Ridge Golf Club in Columbus.
“We have seen the course a couple of times and plan to see it a few more before the tournament,” said Stipe.
