Justin Smool drive Sept. 28, 2008

Dutch contending with ranked foes

RAMSEY, MINN.—Central College freshman Brent Goodenow (Johnston) shot an even-par 72 Sunday and the Dutch men’s golf squad is third heading into the final round of the 23-team Twin Cities Classic.

No. 10-ranked Illinois Wesleyan leads the 54-hole tournament at 290-289—579 while top-rated St. John’s (Minn.) is at 284-297—581, Central is at 290-299—589 and Luther is fourth at 295-301—596. Complete results were not yet available.

The tourney was played at the Links at North Fork Sunday after being staged at the Elk River Country Club Saturday. Monday’s final round is at the White Bear Yacht Club in St. Paul, ranked among the nation’s top 100 courses, and unfamiliar to most players in the field.

Goodenow is at 75-72—147, but still trails teammate Andy Petersen (senior, Davenport, West HS), who is at 68-74—142. Jason Harvey (sophomore, Goldfield, Clarion-Goldfield HS) is at 73-78--151, Andrew Townsend (junior, Bettendorf, Pleasant Valley HS) is at 74-77--151 and Justin Smool (junior, Bagley, Panorama HS) is at 75-76—151.

The only blemish on Goodenow’s scorecard Sunday was a triple-bogey on the ninth hole, but he came back strong to fire a 36 on the back nine and finish at even par for the day.

"It was a great round for Brent,” coach Charlie Estabrook said. “He plays solid and his swing is solid. He doesn’t make many mistakes.”

Estabrook likes his team’s position but has his sights set higher.

“We’re continuing to miss greens and just not getting up and down,” he said. “We’re competing with the best teams in the country but I think we can do a little better if we do a better job of course management.

“I’m pretty happy with third place. I’m excited about that but you always have to want more. You have to keep wanting the best out of the players.”