MacEwan Athletics
RYLEY, Alta. – Near-freezing conditions failed to slow down MacEwan's Justin Berget in the opening round of the ACAC Golf Championship on Friday. The biting wind had no luck either.
Par didn't fare any better.
The Stony Plain GC product shot an opening round of 1-under 71 and leads the field by two shots one-third of the way through the tournament at Coal Creek Golf Resort.
"Bergy's been playing great all season and has once again put himself in contention this week," said MacEwan golf head coach Jodi Campbell. "He's a real gamer and is motivated to lead our team by example this year.
"Today was as tough as it gets and he still brought his game. We're proud how he's getting the job done. Nothing phases this guy."
Defending champion Michael Harrison of host UAlberta-Augustana and Medicine Hat's Chase Broderson sit tied for second after 73s, while MacEwan's Stephen Christenson is another shot back in fourth after a 74.
Berget, who won the ACAC North Regional two weeks ago at Red Tail Landing GC, saved his best for last on Friday, going out in 38 and coming in with a sizzling three-birdie back nine 33.
His work has the defending champion Griffins men's team only a shot off the team lead after Day 1. Blake Caron (T12th – 80), Noah Lubberding (T15th – 83), Jarrett Bossert (T15th – 83), Nate Gerhardt (T20th – 84) and Jose Lopez Peterson (T23rd – 85) round out MacEwan's men's results.
On the women's side, unfortunately, Jordan Hoyda had to withdraw due to an injury, leaving Skyler Thompson to lead the team. She shot a 97 and sits in ninth, 17 shots back of first round leader Carey McLean of SAIT. Taylor Eskdale is tied for 12th after a 108.
