Although the Utah men’s golf team had to battle the elements this week at the Wyoming Cowboy Classic in Scottsdale, Ariz., it still managed to have an impressive outing.
With strong winds affecting play throughout the first round, the Utes finished in seventh place overall out of 24 teams.
“Honestly with something like that, it’s all mental,” said head coach Randall McCracken of the inclement weather. “I just tell them you need to be mentally tougher than everyone else. When the winds start whipping, a lot of golfers throw in the towel. I just try to motivate them to keep the ball on the course and they will come out successful.”
One Ute who used his coach’s advice and had a successful first round was Daniel Engle. Despite the tough conditions, Engle kept his composure and finished tied for fourth.
“I’ve played in similar weather to that before,” Engle said. “I noticed a lot of players trying to fight the wind and force shots, so I decided to stay patient and just go for pars.”
Engle certainly had success in the par department, as he led the field in pars converted. Engle gained some ground in the final round and finished the event in second place overall.
“My highest finish before this was only 11th place,” Engle said. “I just never really played up to my potential, and I was able to do that this week. I am definitely happy overall. It was a lot of fun.”
The Utes won’t compete again until the Pac-12 Championships, which start April 29. McCracken said it will be a challenge for the team to stay in shape with the time off, but keeping an eye on the goal of competing well at the championships will serve as motivation.
“We need to have nice weather these next couple weeks,” Engle said. “We need to stay in our routines and stay polished playing outdoors. But no matter what, we know it is a big deal, and we are going to work hard. I go into every event thinking I am going to win, and this one is no different.”