Somers Claims Medalist Honors at Wofford Invitational; Elon Men’s Golf Phoenix Places Second

SPARTANBURG, S.C. — Senior John Somers earned the first individual tournament victory of his Elon career on Tuesday, April 15, as he claimed medalist honors at The Coca-Cola Wofford Invitational. His performance helped the Phoenix to a second-place finish in the team standings as the maroon and gold posted a three-round score of 837 (274-272-291).

Somers picked up the victory after finishing the tournament with a 10-under 206 (65-68-73). After matching the tournament record for the lowest individual score through 36 holes (133) and equaling the tournament mark for lowest first round score (65) yesterday, Somers carded a one-over par 73 on Tuesday. He bested a quintet of players who finished two strokes back, including 15th-rated J.T. Poston of Western Carolina and 21st-ranked Julien Brun of TCU. Somers recorded a tournament-best four eagles and added 15 birdies over his three rounds of play.

Troy Beaver, who had played just six rounds this year prior to this tournament, earned a share of eighth place in the field of 83 with a 210 (69-67-74). Beaver finished with 16 birdies, tied for the most in the event.

Just one stroke back in a tie for 14th was Will DiIanni. He achieved his 211 with rounds of 70, 70 and 71 and had a total of two eagles.

Jonathan DiIanni placed in a tie for 21st with a mark of 213 (73-67-73). He posted 13 birdies over his 54 holes.

Finally, Stuart Kaufman earned a share of 45th after recording a 221 (70-75-76).

In the 15-team field, Lamar rallied past Elon thanks to a final round 276 to take home the team title. Lamar finished with a -31 mark of 833 (273-284-276). The Phoenix was four shots back with a 27-under 837.

Host Wofford placed third with a score of 840, while Radford’s 849 placed the Highlanders fourth. In a tie for fifth at 853 were 50th-ranked TCU and Appalachian State.

The Phoenix will wrap up the 2013-14 season at the 78th annual Southern Conference Championship, which begins on Sunday, April 20 at the National Golf Club at Pinehurst.