Staff Report

 

COLUMBUS — Senior men’s golfer Nathan Kerns finished the final round of his career, closing out the NCAA Columbus Regional at the Scarlet Course tied for 22nd after shooting an even par 71 in round three.

Kerns finished the championship with a score of 8-over 221.

“I feel like I played much better today,” Kerns said. “I was excited that I was able to close out my career with a decent round and enjoy the moment.”

Kerns’ tally of 71 was the best of the three rounds, as the Ironton native shot four birdies and four bogeys during the day.

Kerns closed his senior season with a 71.9 stroke average.

“Nathan played much better today,” head coach Matt Grobe said.

“It was really cool today to see the Marshall fans and family come and support him. It was really a day of mixed emotions. I was happy to see him play so well, but it was sad to see his final day with the Thundering Herd.

“It was great to see all the people come out and support Nathan,” continued Grobe. “He had by far the biggest galleries of any kids playing this week.”

New Mexico entered the final round tied for fifth and finished with the day with a tournament-best 1-under 283 for a 54-hole score of 870 to win the team title.

The top five teams including New Mexico, Auburn, South Carolina, UNLV and Texas Tech will be advancing to the NCAA Championships.

The finals will take place May 28-June 2 at The Capital City Club, Crabapple Course in Atlanta. Georgia Tech is the host institution for this year’s championships.

Denny McCarthy of Virginia finished the day tied for second and secured the individual slot to advance to the championships.

He totaled six birdies to card a tournament-best 66. McCarthy finished 1-over on the tournament with a 214.