By Steve Williams
Two-time state runner-up Addisyn Newman shot a higher score than normal in the Region 2-4A girls’ individual tournament last week at the Island Point Golf Club near Kodak. The Hardin Valley Academy junior, however, still managed to win with a four-over-par 76.
“I would say patience was key,” said Newman, “just one shot at a time, just not focus on the last shot that was bad, just focus on the upcoming one.
“I believe last year I shot 2-under (in the region at Beaver Brook). The conditions at the course (this year) were very nice with really fast greens, so putt-putts weren’t dropping. But we came back.”
Apparently the Island Point course, which borders the French Broad River – one of the oldest rivers in the world – was a tough course to get low scores on for both the girls and boys.
Only one player, HVA junior Arjun Patel, shot below par with his two-under 70, which gave him the boys’ individual region crown.
Now Newman and Patel are looking ahead again to play on the state tournament courses in Sevierville.
Patel said he did pretty good at state last year. “I shot even and then 4-over the second day and we won as a team. I think I’ve got a big job to do, so hopefully I can go over there and perform to the best of my ability.”
As for Newman, who finished one stroke behind the state champion last season, she said “this year I’m looking for the win … that’s the plan.”
