Tampa Finishes Sixth at Eckerd Invitational

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. - The University of Tampa women's golf team turned in a strong final round to climb into sixth place at the Eckerd Invitational (Sept. 22-23), hosted at Pasadena Yacht & Country Club in St. Petersburg, Fla.

The Spartans posted rounds of 311-304-293—908 (+44) to finish just two strokes back of fifth-place Anderson and only six behind fourth-place Nova Southeastern.

Leading the way for Tampa was Ruth Toennessen, who carded the team's top finish at t-7th overall. Toennessen opened with a 73, followed with a 77, and then delivered a strong 71 in the final round to close at 221 (+5), her second top-10 finish of the fall.

Close behind was Kat Brictson, who posted steady scores of 76-74-78—228 (+12) to secure a t-20th place result. Maria Mora surged on the final day with a team-best 70, jumping 17 spots up the leaderboard to finish 23rd at 229 (+13) after earlier rounds of 83 and 76.

Kelly Shanahan was also a key contributor, recording rounds of 79-77-74—230 (+14) to place in a tie for 24th. Rounding out the lineup was Annie Betts, who fought through a tough start to close with a 79 in the final round, finishing t-61st at 248 (+32).

Competing as an individual, Silvia Barnes gained valuable tournament experience with rounds of 81-85-84—250 (+34), finishing in a tie for 64th.

As a team, Tampa showed resilience by shaving 18 strokes off its opening-round score with the strong closing 293, tied for the second-best round of the day in the field.

Wingate claimed the team title at 876 (+12), led by individual medalist Amely Bochaton, who fired a seven-under-par 209 (70-72-67).