BIG RAPIDS, Mich. – Entering the postseason ranked 20th in the nation, the Harding men's golf team found itself in unfamiliar territory on Thursday. The Bisons, usually a model of consistency, struggled through a difficult opening round at the NCAA Central/Midwest Regional, carding a 19-over 307.
The score leaves Harding with plenty of ground to cover in the final two rounds at the Katke Golf Course. The tournament that advances the top four teams to the National Championship.
Staykov and Arzu Lead the Way
Junior Jose Arzu paced the Bisons on day one. Arzu remained steady through the Michigan breeze, turning in a 2-over 74. His performance has him tied for 29th individually, well within striking distance of the leaders.
Dennis Staykov provided the primary highlight of the day for Harding. After a slow start, Staykov found a scorching rhythm on the front nine, carding three consecutive birdies on holes 7, 8, and 9. While a few late bogeys pushed him to a 3-over 75 (T44), that three-hole stretch served as a reminder of the explosive scoring potential this lineup possesses.
Round 1 Scores
The Field
40th-ranked Winona State currently sits atop the team leaderboard after an impressive 4-under par performance. Individually, Manuel Cue (Grand Valley State) and Ben Miller (Ferris State) lead the pack at 5-under 67.
Up Next: The Bisons return to the course for Round 2 on Friday morning. Tee times are scheduled to begin at 9 a.m.
