The No. 10 Illini will kick off the spring season at the John A. Burns Intercollegiate. The event is held from Feb. 13-15 at the Ocean Course at Hōkūala.
In its 48th season, the competition stands out as one of the most challenging lineups in its lifetime. It features 17 programs, with 13 holding spots among the top 100 rankings.
Illinois leads the pack as the highest-ranked team competing, bringing its A-game to Kauai. Senior Jackson Buchanan leads the Illini. He ranks No. 14 in individual college golf rankings, making him the best player in this year’s field. How Buchanan plays will be crucial as the team faces other star-studded programs like No. 21 BYU and No. 16 Utah.
The event will last three days with a 54-hole setup where teams will count the four top scores out of five each day. The contest kicks off with a 9 a.m. HST shotgun start every morning, offering a steady test across the par-70, 7,098-yard course.
Illinois’ lineup includes seasoned players like Buchanan and junior Ryan Voois. Sophomores Max Herendeen and Ethan Wilson, alongside freshmen Jake Birdwell, Joseph Buttress and Trey Marrion, join them in competition. This mix of experience and new talent could prove monumental in navigating the scenic yet demanding Ocean Course at Hōkūala.
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Not only does this tournament serve as a test for the Illini, but it also is a chance for them to shine on a national stage against some of the best teams in college golf. With past champions California and No. 41 UNLV in the mix, the competition promises to be fierce.
The John A. Burns Intercollegiate is named after former Hawaii Gov. John A. Burns. It is known for its rich history and has been a staple event for showcasing high-level collegiate golf in a beautiful setting.
As Illinois tees off on Thursday, all eyes will be on how the team manages the pressure and the course. The program aims to set a strong tone for its spring campaign.
@Jordan_Goodhart
