Vaqs Claim Second Place at Season Opener

VENTURA, Calif. – The Santa Barbara City College women's golf team claimed second place at the Chuck Melendez Invitational, which took place at Olivas Links Golf Course on Monday, August 25.

The Vaqueros shot a 367 overall, just four strokes behind Canyons. Bakersfield finished in third at 383, Allan Hancock claimed fourth at 385. Moorpark rounded out the top five with a 389.

Aidie Smith birdied holes 17 and 18 en route to a 78, the second-best score overall in the tournament, just a stroke behind Canyons' Sahya Kitabatake. 

"Overall, I think it was a pretty good performance," said head coach Devin Engebretsen. "All the ladies admitted there were four shots to be had out there. They could have saved a bogey here or a double-bogey there. Hopefully, we will be fighting for that top spot in the conference all season."

Mylee Gonzalez shot a 92, Camryn Chapman had a 94, and Azul Calzadillas rounded out the effort with a 103.

"I'm really excited about this group," said Engebretsen. "I really like being around them. They're workaholics."

The team of four freshmen has a chance to ride this momentum and build chemistry as the season progresses. 

"They really love the game, and I think they really like being around each other, and it shows in our camaraderie and performance," said Engebretsen.

The Vaqs tee off on Monday, 11 a.m. at Santa Barbara Golf Club for their second tournament of the season.