Eva Downes putt

Dutch improve 16 shots at Wartburg

WAVERLY—Knocking 16 shots off its first-round score, the Central College women’s golf team climbed to a ninth-place finish at the 11-team Wartburg Spring Invitational Sunday.

The Dutch closed at 383-367—750. Gustavus Adolphus (Minnn.) won with 329-319—648 with Illinois Wesleyan second at 337-329—666 and Wis.-Eau Claire third at 335-337—189. The tourney attracted a strong field because the NCAA Division III tourney will be played in Waverly in May, allowing this weekend to serve as a course preview.

Nicole Wenstrand (freshman, Essex) was 21st at 88-88-176. Franklin College’s (Ind.) Katie Tewell took medalist honors with 81-73—154. Eva Downes (sophomore, Woodstock, Ill, Marian Catholic Central HS) made the most dramatic move, shooting 101-84—185 with Jordan Williams (junior, Pella) at 99-94—193, Allison Crooks (freshman, Moline, Ill.) at 95-107—202 and Janelle Stevens (freshman, West Bend, West Bend-Mallard HS) at 103-101—204.

Central continues its abbreviated spring schedule next Saturday and Sunday at the Carleton Invitational at Northfield, Minn.