Jim Walker

jim.walker@irontontribune.com

 

PORTSMOUTH — Josh Zornes is on the first couple of holes of his college career, and it looks like a birdie and eagle in terms of success.

The Shawnee State University freshman golfer opened his college career by earning medalist honors with a 4-over-par 76 at the Ohio-Chillicothe Invitational on a cool, breezy April 13.

Zornes — a former All-Ohio golfer for the Ironton Fighting Tigers — carded a 36 on the front nine and followed with a 40 on the back side for his first collegiate win.

The Golden Bears shot 323 as a team to capture first place at the event.

Teammate Nick Saunders from Gallipolis shot an even 80 and finished second for the Bears.

Three days after that tournament, Shawnee State played in the Bluegrass Spring Classic in Georgetown, Ky., and shot 307 as a team to finish third.

Zornes shot even par 145 on the first day and had a 5-over 149 on the second day as he placed fifth overall and was named to the all-tournament team along with Saunders.

Zornes has been the Bears’ top golfer in three tournaments and second on two occasions.

The Bears will play in the Mid-South Championship April 21-23 at Maywood Golf Course in Bardstown, Ky.

Shawnee State finish the spring season at the OSU-Lima tournament on April 26.