Playing on its home course proved to be just what the Ankeny boys’ golf team needed.
After opening the season on Tuesday with a loss at Marshalltown, the Hawks returned home and posted a 312-323 victory over visiting Ames on Thursday at Otter Creek Golf Course. They evened their record at 1-1 in the CIML Iowa Conference.
“It was good to get one in the win column today as we played much better,” said Ankeny coach Mike Weddingfeld. “I know playing on our home course–a course all the kids are familiar with–and being our second meet, the kids were less nervous. That really benefited us and helped our scores.”
Drew Hensen carded a 3-over-par 74 to earn medalist honors by one stroke over Derek Peng of Ames. He had a 2-under 34 on the front nine, highlighted by three birdies during one four-hole stretch.
Aivin Legg had a 76 for the Hawks. He shot an even-par 35 on the back nine.
“Drew and Aivin led the way again today playing solid rounds,” Weddingfeld said.
Jacob Adams and Jake O’Brien each carded an 81 for Ankeny’s other counting scores. Sam Parkinson fired an 85, and Evan Chapman added a 92.
“Jacob and Jake played well for us also,” Weddingfeld said. “Out of those top four counting scores we still had some hiccups during the round and gave some shots back and that is something we talked about afterwards. We need to work on being more consistent from shot to shot and finishing rounds without making bogeys and doubles.
“Almost everyone wishes they could have one or two holes or swings back to do over after a round of golf. Limiting your mistakes is huge in golf and as a young team it is hard to do sometimes. It was a good win for us and we will get back to work (Friday) and next week to keep improving. I am proud of the team for bouncing back today and playing much better,” he added.
Ankeny’s next meet will be on Aug. 31, when the Hawks compete in the Fort Dodge Invitational.
