Sophomore Ryan Ritzau negotiated winds up to 35 mph on Monday to shoot a 2-over-par 74, leading SBCC to first place in the Pt. Conception Open at Marshallia Ranch on Vandenberg Air Force Base.
Ritzau, a former Dos Pueblos High standout, finished one shot behind the medalist, Nick Koonbirarak of Hancock. Jesse Ferris carded a 76 for the Vaqueros and Albert Corral shot 77.
SBCC finished at 396, 13 shots ahead of Hancock in the four-team field.
“On a tough, windy day, our veterans led the way,” said Vaquero coach Chuck Melendez. “It’s good to see Ryan shoot a good score. He’s a great player and we’re going to need him this year.”
The Vaqueros travel to Whittier on Friday to defend their title in the Rio Hondo Invitational at California CC.
At par-72 Marshallia Ranch
Vandenberg AFB
Team — 1, SBCC 396. 2, Hancock 409. 3, Bakersfield 418. 4, El Camino 437.
Medalist — Nick Koonbirarak, H, 73. SBCC scores — Ryan Ritzau 74, Jesse Ferris 76, Albert Corral 77, Mike Levine 84. Andy Clayton 85.
