Judge golfer takes 3A lead in wind

MIDWAY — Seldom is a player found who enjoys playing golf in the wind. But that was the case Wednesday at Soldier Hollow, where Judge Memorial's Andrew Etzel posted an even-par 72 at the 3A state golf tournament, laying claim to the first-round lead.

"I like playing in the wind," he explained. "It plays to my strengths."

However that translates, it's hard to argue with the fact that only five players broke 80 and he held a three-stroke lead over his nearest competitor, McLayne Eldridge, who was competing as a single when his Union team did not qualify for state.

"It was my short game," Etzel said of his round. "My putter was great."

Teamwise, it was crowded at the top. Carbon and Uintah are tied at 326. Etzel's Bulldogs are tied with Park City at 328, and Logan is in fifth at 344.

Delta's Kyle Hill posted a 78, but it wasn't enough to keep the Rabbits alive for another day. Hill, however, will return to seek an individual title.

"The wind made it tough," Hill said. "I thought I'd putt it good and the wind would blow it out."

Carbon featured a balanced attack to grab the lead. Shayne Burke and Corbin Black each carded 80s. Coming off the Region 8 Championship as title holder, Burke expected better.

"I missed soooo many par putts," Burke said.

"There was a two-club difference going into the wind," Black added.

Their coach, Tony Pinedo, was pleased with his team's play considering the conditions.

"The kids kept their composure," Pinedo said.

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