University of Minnesota Athletics
Johnson, Longbella Shine at State Ams
7/22/2016 12:00:00 AM | Men's Golf
In both Minnesota and neighbor state Wisconsin, a Golden Gopher claimed runner-up honors at the state amateur championship. Returning junior Riley Johnson finished second at the 113th MGA Amateur Championship, and incoming freshman Thomas Longbella did the same at the 115th Wisconsin State Amateur Championship the next day.
Johnson posted scores of 68, 71 and 68 to go 6 under at North Oaks Golf Club. He took the lead late in the final round on Wednesday, birdying the 18th to get to 6 under. He ended up in second when Alex Uloth, who led by four entering the day, made an eagle on 18.
Other Gopher finishes included a tie for 14th by recent graduate Jon DuToit (+3), a tie for 28th by returning senior Justin Doeden (+6) and a tie for 33rd by Grady Meyer (+7).
Longbella played in the Thursday's final pairing, entering the last round ahead by one shot. The fourth round was delayed about four hours by inclement weather, and Longbella completed his round of 73 with darkness closing in. He carded scores of 72, 67, 67 in the first three rounds and was 1 under for the tournament. Nick Nelson won at 4 under.
Upcoming tournaments featuring multiple Gophers include the Minnesota State Open (July 22-24) and the Pine to Palm (Aug. 8-14).
Players Mentioned
