Patriots, Bishoff, Grab Opener at Lionsgate

Jacob Bishoff

The Christ Prep Patriot golf team braved a bitter March wind chill en route to claiming an opening match victory yesterday at the Nicklaus Golf Club at Lionsgate.

Yesterday's contest, a dual meet hosted by Heritage Christian Academy of Olathe, provided a formidable test for both teams. The Jack Nicklaus-designed links played at 3,200+ yards over the club's front nine. Blustery conditions, plentiful bunkers, and a formidable rough complicated both teams' traverse of the award-winning layout.

The Patriots' top four golfers  combined for a team score of 176 to Heritage's 208. Senior Jacob Bishoff claimed medalist honors, carding a six-over-par 42 for the day. He barely edged fellow senior teammate Garrett Routh for the honor. Routh shot a seven-over 43 and was followed by junior Sawyer Massing (45) and senior Nolan Becerra (46). Junior Phoebe Finley had to WD due to a wrist injury incurred during a bunker shot. Freshman Michael Gimotty, in his debut for the Patriots, shot a very respectable 65.

Heritage Christian, in its first year of competitive golf, was led by frosh Parker Allen, who turned in a 47 for the day. Both Heritage and CPA will meet again at the Patriots' invitational to be held April 29 at Ironhorse G.C. in Leawood.

Christ Prep returns to action next week as the team travels to Archie to compete against the Whirlwinds and Drexel High at Blackberry Trails in Archie. That event is followed by the Patriots' final nine hole contest of the year--a dual against Barstow at Loch Lloyd C.C. in Belton, Mo.