RJGA Shootout at Estrella (Round 1)

GOODYEAR, Ariz. – Kicking off their 2024-25 campaign at the RJGA Shootout at Estrella, Academy of Art finished the first day of action tied for first place with three others out of 16 team entries. Freshman Isabella Christy leads the Urban Knights as she finished tied for second place individually to begin the tournament. 

With a 1-over-par 73 through the first 18 holes of her collegiate debut, Christy hit three birdies to project herself towards the top of the individual standings. Sophomore Chantel Tsai is the next Knight as she recorded a 2-over-par 74 to place herself tied for ninth place headed into the second day. Freshman Meri Illamola and freshman Jannel Calixterio, who are both in their first collegiate showing as well, round out the squad with junior Nicole Yang as they follow to keep the Knights in the middle of the pack in team play.

"I'm really proud of all of them," said Head Coach Beth Allen. "I could tell during our practice round yesterday that this group came to play. Our returners, Nicole and Chantel, led by example during our short time preparing for this event and the freshmen are fantastic. They all have phenomenal attitudes and a great demeanor on and off of the course. Isabella played really solid today and for her to only be two back after the first round of her collegiate career is amazing. The best part is we didn't play our best golf and we know there is room for improvement."

CSU Pueblo, MSU Denver, Lubbock Christian, and Academy of Art are knotted at the top of the team charts after the first day with their 20-over-par 308 apiece as Kiara Hernandez of Point Loma leads all individuals in first place with her 1-under-par 71.

Tomorrow, Sept. 17, will be the final round of the two-day tournament, as the Knights will look to further climb the rankings at the RJGA Shootout at Estrella.

"We're going to go out and do our best tomorrow, try not to get ahead of ourselves and enjoy the day," Allen said. "I know they can win this. Hopefully some putts will drop and we'll walk away with a trophy but, regardless of tomorrow's result, I'm proud of how we competed today and really believe the future is very bright for this team."