Viking golf hits 300 to win district
By Jason S. Rufner
Five Loudoun Valley golfers shot 77 or better to become champions of the Cedar Run District tournament Sept. 29 on their par-72 home course at Loudoun Golf & Country Club in Purcellville.
The Vikings, who also won the Cedar Run regular season title, advance to the Northwest Regional tournament Oct. 14 at Forest Greens Country Club in Triangle.
The Vikings' overall score of 300 was seven strokes better than Battlefield's, last season's district champion.
"It's always a battle with Loudoun Valley," Battlefield coach John Tillman said. In four competitions featuring Valley and Battlefield, the Bobcats are a total of four strokes behind the Vikings.
"I think it's a friendly rivalry," Tillman said. "We expect each other to be right there with each other."
Zack Bosse successfully defended his 2007 district individual crown with his round of 72, outlasting Battlefield's Andrew Lister in a three-hole playoff for the top honor.
Bosse said he had trouble off the tee but was able to save himself on several holes, including a birdie on No. 12 after initially driving the ball into the water trap.
The Vikings' sole senior, Austin Kaseman, delighted Valley partisans with his round of 75 in only his third competition of the year.
Loudoun Valley coach Gary McKay is not shy about using absolutes in describing his golfers.
"We've played very consistent golf this year, probably more consistent than any team I've ever had," the 20th-year coach said.
Both the coach and his players realize the consistency must continue to repeat as Northwest Region champions.
"We've played pretty well, but we can definitely improve on what we've been doing," assessed Scott Davidson, who shot a 76 Monday.
McKay looked ahead to the regional tournament.
"Battlefield's going to be strong. It's Forest Park's home course, and they're very strong. Albemarle usually has a good team," McKay said. "We just hope to have another outing like we did today."