Newton golf team takes sixth

ANKENY — Playing conditions were cooler than the last time they played golf, and Newton High’s Cardinals had an off day in Wednesday’s Ankeny Invitational at Otter Creek Golf Course.

The Cardinals played last Thursday at home on one of the hottest days of the young season, finishing second as a team. Rain washed out Tuesday’s competition at Ottumwa.

In the Ankeny Invitational, Newton finished sixth in a field of eight teams. The Cardinals combined for a 333 team score. West Des Moines Dowling Catholic captured the team title with a 302 — one stroke ahead of West Des Moines Valley at 303.

“The conditions were tough today. It was cold and really windy; I think it got to us a little,” said Pat Riley, Newton head coach. “Most teams typically have a ‘let down’ meet after having a really good which we had last Thursday at home. It also didn’t help that we have not swung any clubs in three days because of the weather. We will shoot better next meet, I know it.”

Derek Damman powered back from a tough front nine to shoot a even-par 35 on the back nine, leading the Cardinals with a  79. Devin Shores carded an 80 as Newton’s No. 2 golfer on the day. Austin Reynodls shot an 86 and Payton Thomas had an 88 to round out the team score.

Tyler Thongvanh finished with a 93. Jordan Henning carded a 95 on the day.

The Cardinals play at Ames Monday. The Ottumwa Invitational was rescheduled to Sept. 30.

Contact Sports Editor Jocelyn Sheets at (641) 792-3121 Ext. 6535 or jsheets@newtondailynews.com.