Sept. 13, 2011
2011 Mark Simpson Invitational Final Results 
Erie, Colo. — Of the opening tournament of the 2011-12 men’s golf season is any indication, it’s pretty simple: the Lobos are back, and they want back in the postseason. UNM made an effective opening statement in that regard, as the Lobos finished second at the season opening Mark Simpson Invitational, behind only host Colorado. UNM shot a 19-under 845, missing the title by just five strokes.
The Lobos finished 11 strokes ahead of third place Oklahoma, who qualified for the NCAA Championships in Stillwater last season. Overall the Lobos also topped NCAA Championship participant Colorado State and regional participant and rival New Mexico State.
New Mexico was paced by three top 10 finishes, none better than John Catlin, who shot 71-67-69 for a nine under 137, finishing two strokes off the lead. Colorado’s Beau Schoolcraft shot an 11-under and won a playoff with San Diego’s Alex Ching for the individual title.
James Erkenbeck shot a 67, the lowest score of the day on Tuesday. |
Joining Catlin in the top 10 was senior James Erkenbeck, who jumped from 22nd to a tie for 7th with a final round 67, the day’s best third round score. Victor Perez, who like Erkenback started the day tied for 22nd, finished in a tie for ninth after a final round 69.
Gavin Green shot an even par 216 to finish tied for 18th, and Sean Romero was 45th after a 6-over 222. UNM’s Sam Saunders played as an individual and shot a one-under 215, including an opening round 68.
New Mexico made their move on the par 5s, as Erkenbeck was -6 for the tournament on the long holes, and Catlin was right behind at -5. Catlin’s 13 birdies for the tournament was tied for second, behind Schoolcraft’s 15.
The Lobos have 12 day until their next outing, the three day Golf Week Conference Challenge in Burlington, Iowa, Sept. 25-27.