STOCKTON — Steady rain coupled with cold and some winds made conditions at Monday’s 2015 Sac-Joaquin Section Masters Tournament less than ideal.
But that didn’t hinder Brooke Riley from playing her game.
East Union’s No. 1 golfer shot the top score at The Reserve at Spanos Park, firing a one-under-par 71 to earn individual medalist honor.
“The conditions were tough but most of it was mental. It was still a grind,” she said.
By topping the field of 112, Riley once again qualified for next week’s NorCal championships at The Club at Crazy Horse Ranch in Salinas.
“It would’ve been awesome to go (to NorCals) as a team,” she said.
As a team, the Lancers took sixth place, tallying an overall 466 score. Rebeca Leonard and Allie Tajii both shot 95s, while Brittany Conijn and Natalie Cowan carded 101 and 104, respectively. Kendra Campbell finished with a 116.
Granite Bay led by Vanessa Richani’s 75 took first place with a 406. Oak Ridge (422) placed second and Rocklin (450) also advanced to the NorCals by finishing third.
“We thought our team was good enough to finish in the top five,” said East Union co-coach Dennis Wells.
Instead, St. Francis and Vista del Lago held those spot, shooting identical scores of 459.
The top four players outside the top three teams are also moving on to the NorCals. Along with Riley are Beah Cruz of Christian Brothers (73), Natalie Pietromonaco of Placer (75) and Madeline Zunino of Lincoln (75).
Next fall, Riley will be playing for Northwestern, which is one of the top collegiate golf programs. She’s hoping to close out her storied prep career with a strong effort in the postseason. Last year, she placed third in the CIF State Tournament.
“Brooke has what it takes to win it,” Wells said. “She’s a phenomenal player – Brooke brings determination and desire.”
Riley is also hoping for better conditions than the Masters.
“The coaches kept reminding us to keep our clubs and grips dry,” she said.
According to Wells, Riley had a good showing recently while playing a practice round at Crazy Horse. She also played there last year at the NorCals and finished 1-under for third place.
“I think she’ll be OK,” he said. “One thing about Brooke – she’s always learned from defeat.”
To contact reporter Vince Rembulat, email vrembulat@mantecabulletin.com.
