The Roadrunner Men's Golf Team continues to surprise local junior college programs, winning the RCGC Invitational Wednesday afternoon with a late surge at Pitman Golf Club.
The Runners, led by freshman Aidan Caspar, who carded an 85 over 18 holes, grabbed their first tournament championship since the 1970s with 352 points, edging out Ocean County College, the runnerup with 360 points. Rowan Burlington placed third with 394 points while Delaware Tech and Camden County College rounded out the five-team field respectively.
Other RCGC finishers included Matthew Marinari (86), Mike Marconi (87), Zach Buscher (94) and Julian Pinto (95).
The Runners were in the middle of the pack mover the front nine holes, but rallied late to win the title.
"These players never gave up despite the windy conditions and getting off to a tough start," said Clarke. "They were frustrated after the front nine. But they work hard in practice and I'm not surprised they came back like they did."
The team averaged 88 per golfer over the 18 hole course, with Caspar coming on strong in shooting a 42 over the back nine to place first overall on the roster.
"Aidan (Caspar) really had a strong finish, and he came up big for us," said Clarke.
The Runners previously enjoyed a solid third place showing at the Rowan Burlington Invitational in their opener on March 25 Deerwood Country Club.
RCGC Coach Clarke also welcomed past Gloucester County College Junior College National Champion Bernie Dunn at the outset of the tournament. Dunn won the fist JUCO national crown in 1972.
"It was great seeing Bernie and he was very inspirational with our players," said Clarke. "He is a legend within our college community."
Tourney Preview
The Roadrunner Invitational Golf Tournament will be held on Wednesday, April 3 with the first tee time at 12:00 Noon. The tournament will be hosted by Pitman Golf Course in Pitman, NJ.
Teams Expected to Participate:
Rowan College at Gloucester County
Camden CC
Rowan College at Burlington County
Bucks CC
Ocean CC
The Roadrunners, coached by former GCIT coach Jim Clarke, finished third in a seven-team men's tournament on March 25 at Deerwood Country Club. Clarke hopes to continue seeing improvement in starters Matthew Marinari, Julian Pinto, Aidan Caspar and Zach Buscher among others. Also competing on the women's side will be Paige Angelus and Dawn Foglein.
Check back for more information!
Course GPS Address:
Pitman Golf Course
501 Pitman Rd, Sewell, NJ 08080
