Cats Ninth, Cunningham Third in Pac-12 Championship - Tucson News Now

TUCSON, Ariz. – The University of Arizona men's golf team completed the final round of play in the Pac-12 Championship today at the Palouse Ridge Golf Course in Pullman, Wash. The Wildcats took ninth place in the team competition at 46 over par after posting a one-over-par round on Wednesday, which was the third-best final round in the field. The Cats were led by freshman George Cunningham, who notched 71-70-68-67=276 (-4) to earn a share of third place behind 14 birdies and an eagle throughout the tournament.

“Today was very exciting for me,” remarked Cunningham. “I played great all day and am excited to have moved up to a top three finish in my first Pac-12 championship. I have definitely learned a lot from this week and will use what I have learned in future tournaments.”

Redshirt freshman Jake Kreuz carded a 73-74-72-71=290 (+10) over the course of the competition, which earned him a tie for 34th place. Senior Brenden Redfern finished in a tie for 44th behind a 72-74-78-70=294 (+14). Senior Alex McMahon's 77-73-72-73=295 (+15) contained the best Par 3 scoring in the tournament, four under par. He finished in a tie for 49th. Freshman Max Donohue posted 79-73-76-70=298 (+18) for a share of 54th place, while fellow freshman Peter Koo had a 79-76-71-74=300 (+20), earning himself a tie for 59th place.

"We showed a ton of heart and determination as a team today," commented head men's golf coach Jim Anderson. "The conditions were so challenging and the best players in college golf were competing today.  For us to finish the championships with one of the best rounds of the day is a great sign.  It is bittersweet because this round was indicative of what this team is capable of.  We say goodbye to two fine Wildcats in Alex and Brenden.  That said, they have helped show the younger guys, in this case four freshmen, what Wildcat golf really can be.  The future looks very good for us and these kinds of days will resonate and motivate in the future."

"George was outstanding all week.  He is making a push for the all-time freshman scoring record and he will likely be in the conversation for conference postseason awards thanks to this finish.  Having a freshman show this type of consistency all year combined with pure confidence is so encouraging.  He will find ways to save a few more shots, and soon, he will be in the winner's circle individually."