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Sailors golfers have high hopes for state tournament

Joel Reichenberger
Brandon Martin
Joel Reichenberger

— They’re not considered among the state favorites, but the Sailors said they are aware of an opportunity in front of them.

The three qualifiers from the Steamboat Springs High School golf team leave Saturday morning for the Class 4A state golf tournament at Hiwan Golf Club in Evergreen, and they do so with high hopes for the Monday and Tuesday tournament.

“We can go out there and have a couple good rounds, and if we can do that, we can definitely contend for the team title,” said Erik Sobeck, who will be joined at the event by teammates Brandon Martin and Britt Walton.



Realizing that success will be all about managing a difficult golf course. The athletes are expecting fast, multitiered greens that will heavily tax mistakes.

“Leaving yourself in a good position, even if you miss the green, will be key,” Walton said.



Walton led the team earlier this month at the regional tournament. The Sailors fell just two strokes short of securing the regional title but are hoping they can build on the experience at state.

There’s no shortage of other teams vying for that title. Pueblo South won the title a year ago and returns this season, and Valor Christian, Cheyenne Mountain and Silver Creek are considered favorites.

Coach Steve Dodson said it will be as important as anything for the players to manage their big dreams.

“I just want the kids to enjoy the moment, and I know they’ll give me their best effort,” he said. “They always have, but I want them to take a little time, look around, and realize what they’ve already accomplished.

“Anyone has a chance on any given day to go low. The real test will be upstairs. Their patience mentally will be tested each day, each hole, so whoever performs well at that task and executes the proper shots is going to come out on top.”

The action begins for Steamboat at 8:57 a.m. Monday when Martin will be the first of the trio to tee off. The players will play a second round Tuesday.

To reach Joel Reichenberger, call 970-871-4253, email jreichenberger@SteamboatToday.com or follow him on Twitter @JReich9


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