Andrew Perez topped the field for the third straight time on Wednesday, leading the SBCC men’s golf team to a three-stroke lead after one round of the North-South Invitational at Hunter Ranch GC in Paso Robles.
Perez, a freshman from Santa Barbara High who won the CIF title last year, had three birdies and an eagle in his round of 1-under 71. Teammate Matt Siporin shot 72 and also had three birds and an eagle. Albert Corral and Cameron Tennant carded 76s.
The Vaqueros lead the 10-team field at 13-over 373. Ventura is three shots back, followed by Mt. San Antonio (388) and Bakersfield (389).
SBCC improved its season record to 63-1 and is seeking its fifth tournament title. The final round starts Thursday at 7 a.m.
Perez has been the medalist four times and is averaging 69.9. It was his fourth straight under-par round and he’s 15-under for seven rounds this season. Siporin is averaging 73.2.
“Andrew has been very impressive and he’s a great team leader,” said SBCC coach Chuck Melendez. “He’s shot par or better in every round but one. The conditions were excellent and we were a little disappointed because we’ve played (team) qualifiers up here and we know the course.”
North-South Invitational
First round at par-72 Hunter Ranch, Paso Robles
Team–1, SBCC 373. 2, Ventura 376. 3, Mt. SAC 388. 4, Bakersfield 389. 5, Glendale 390. 6, Sierra 394. 7, West Hills 404. 8, Reedley 413. 9, El Camino 443. 10, Sequoias 451.
Medalist–Andrew Perez, SBCC, 71.
Other SBCC scores–Matt Siporin 72, Albert Corral 76, Cameron Tennant 76, Steve Wilson 78, Charley Cerchiai 78.
