Illinois came agonizingly close to claiming the prestigious Augusta Haskins Award Invitational title. However, they were overtaken by Oklahoma State and Texas, who shared the championship honors.
Despite a solid performance in the opening two rounds, the Illini couldn’t maintain their lead on the final day. This led to a third-place finish, with a total of 15-under par (273) after 54 holes at Forest Hills Golf Club.
The Illini started strong, posting rounds of 285 (-3) and 280 (-8), and held a one-stroke lead heading into Sunday. However, both Oklahoma State and Texas fired 10 and 11 under par respectively on the final day, which put them 20 under par (268) and catapulted them in front of Illinois.
Even with a consistent performance, the competition proved to be too fierce. Illinois finished five strokes behind the co-champions.
Herendeen shines with podium finish
Get The Daily Illini in your inbox!
Sophomore Max Herendeen was the standout performer, continuing his strong season with a remarkable second-place finish. The sophomore opened with a bogey-free 66 (-6) in round 1, and followed it in round 2 with a 69 (-3). This performance secured his spot near the top of the leaderboard.
Herendeen’s 12 under par total (204) tied him with senior David Ford of North Carolina, who edged out Herendeen in the playoff and took home the individual crown.
Voois, Buchanan add support
Junior Ryan Voois also contributed to the Illini’s success, tying for 23rd after finishing at par (216). Voois secured a modest 73 (+1) in the opening round.
Another key player was senior Jackson Buchanan, who shot a pair of even-par 72s. His performance kept the Illini in the running. Buchanan tied for 12th, remaining steady throughout the tournament and posting an overall mark of 213.
Wilson and Marrion round out squad
Sophomore Ethan Wilson showed resilience after a slow start by posting a 76 (+4) in round 1, but bounced back with a 70 (-2) in round 2. He ended in a tie for 30th.
Freshman Trey Marrion, who carded a 74 (+2) in the first round, struggled on Sunday. He ended the event at 75th.
Forest Hills proves challenging test
Forest Hills Golf Club presented a true test for the field. Its tight fairways, greens and strategic layout demanded precision from players.
The course’s design emphasized the importance of staying on the fairways and avoiding unnecessary risks. The windy conditions on Sunday only added to the challenge.
Next up
The Illini now look to build on their strong performance as they head into the final stretch of the spring season. Their third place finish at Augusta serves as a solid springboard.
The team will have a short turnaround before heading to the Boilermaker Invitational in two weeks.
Illinois’ key takeaway from this weekend is that it remains one of the top teams in college golf. The Illini continue to charge as they aim for another successful postseason.
@mattisonleskis
