Piddon Paces Knights Following Round One of UCF Challenge

ORLANDO – The UCF women's golf team wrapped up play in the first round of their annual home event, the UCF Challenge, on Sunday at Eagle Creek Golf Club in Orlando. The Knights finished the first round of play in 11th place overall with a 287(-1) total.
 
"We had a little bit of a slow start those first couple of holes," said head coach Emily Marron. "It could have just been nerves since it was the first tournament of the new year, but I think we settled down by the back nine and I was really pleased with our finish. I think we can take that momentum into the next round tomorrow.
 
"I think we have ourselves in a good position to really make a charge tomorrow. If we get to playing well and hitting birdies, we can use that momentum to our advantage."

At one-under-par, the Knights are just one stroke back from No. 7 Virginia, while they also lead the likes of Ohio State, Minnesota, Penn State and more.
 
In the Knights' return to action, UCF was paced by junior Tunrada Piddon, who finished the day tied for second place with a 5-under 67. Piddon, who led the Knights with a 73.38 scoring average in 2020-21, tied the lowest par-72 round of her career with the score.
 
"Pat is always steady for us. [Eagle Creek] sets up really well for her and she's been playing really well at practice lately, so it doesn't surprise me that she finished at five-under today," said Marron. "I didn't see her miss a shot and she looked really good on the greens. I look for another two solids rounds from Pat, no questions."

Piddon was trailed closely by freshman Zoe Allaux who birdied four times in round one to secure a 3-under 69 and finish round one tied for ninth place.
 
Rounding things out graduate-student Ana Laura Collado shot a 3-over 75, sophomore Camille Banzet posted a 76(+4) total, and sophomore Jess Baker shot 78(+6).
 
Playing as individuals, Victoria Levy and Alyssa Lamoureux both turned in a 3-over 75 round one.

The Knights will tee off in the second round of the UCF Challenge Monday morning at 8:45 a.m. UCF is paired with Iowa State and the College of Charleston. Live stats can be found on golfstat.com here.

Due to expected inclement weather on Tuesday, teams will aim to get 27 holes of action in on Monday. 

Full results from day one at the UCF Challenge can be found below.