Joe Highsmith earned his first collegiate victory in style.
The Pepperdine junior won last week’s Western Intercollegiate after a threeway playoff went four extra holes. The Lakewood, Washington, native made par to win at Pasatiempo Golf Club in Santa Cruz, California, defeating BYU’s Carson Lundell. San Diego State’s Puwit Anupansuebsai was eliminated after the third playoff hole.
“Joe hit it really well, he was really impressive,” said Pepperdine head coach Michael Beard. “He’s been knocking on the door a little bit and to be able to close the deal was super special.”
“That was absolute craziness. Obviously the 20-footer in the playoff was crazy,” said Highsmith of his lengthy par save on the second playoff hole. “It may not have looked like it out there, but I was definitely feeling the nerves but was able to handle it pretty well. It’s been a while since I was in that position. This was great, it means a lot to win it here, it’s really cool for me.”
Rankings: Men’s team | Men’s individual