Golf has a strong ninth place finish at Districts

The Blair golf team did not advance to the State Tournament, as they finished ninth out of 23 teams in September 30's District Tournament at the 18 hole, par 71 Poolesville Golf Course, their best finish in recent years.

Blair's team score of 354 and rank was a vast improvement over the team's performance last year, when it finished in 19th place at districts. Seniors Zack Mellman and Ben Payes led the team with 85's. Additionally, junior Neal Vasilak shot a strong 86, while junior Bill McManigle and sophmore Danny Gillen struggled with 98s.

Mellman and Payes missed the qualifying cut off for the state tournament by three strokes. Vasilak might have qualified but triple-bogied on the last hole. Mellman had a streak of five pars in a row, but was still unable to advance to the state finals.

McManigle had a disappointing performance at the tournament, which was unlike his usually consistent play. "I was satisfied with the team play, except myself because I really messed up today," said McManigle.

This was the first 18-hole match for the team, which required increased focus and consistency. McManigle was able to play well for the first and last five holes, but his play dropped off during the middle of his round.

Still, the team was able to adjust to the longer course, high winds and tough pin placements. They placed high in the tournament despite being in the lowest division in Montgomery County. "I think we are really proud of the way we shot," said Payes.

Churchill finished number one, shooting a 308, as all their players shot in the 70s. Blair is not at the level to compete with upper-county powers like Churchill, but this tournament showed that Blair has the talent to be competitive at the district level and potentially qualify for an appearance at the state match in the future.

The Blazers next play Paint Branch and Richard Montgomery in a match play format at Hampshire Greens Golf Course on October 7 at 4:00 p.m.