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The Williamsburg Lady Jackets golf team made school history Monday at the Region 9 Golf tournament by placing second, one shot behind region champion, Russell County, 341-342.
It will be the first time the Lady Jackets have made the trip to the girls’ state golf tournament as a team. Becky Sharpe and Kaylee Akins made the trip as individuals last season. This will be Sharpe’s fourth trip to the state tournament.
“That was our goal this year, to get to the state as a team,” said Williamsburg Coach Jeff Sharpe. “We are really happy to be going.”
Despite the cold, rainy weather, Sharpe, a junior had an outstanding day on the course, firing a 2-under 69. Her closest competitor for the individual championship was North Laurel’s Caroline Moore with a 78.
“They can’t confirm it, but the officials said it might be the lowest round at Burnside Island,” said Sharpe.
The one-point loss to Russell County was even more incredible when you consider Williamsburg doesn’t have a senior on the team. Five golfers play, but only four scores are added for tournament play. Akins, a freshman, followed Sharpe with an 80 while eighth grader Bethany Hamblin had a 90. Julia Higginbotham, a freshman, finished with a 103. Sophomore Deavon Lynch recorded a 123 for the 18-hole championship.
“The girls have played well all year and prepared for this day,” added Sharpe.
Williamsburg will now play in next week’s Leachman Buick-GMC/KHSAA State Golf Championship at the Bowling Green Country Club. The tournament is scheduled Oct. 4-6.
