BYU golfer Whitney Banz secured back-to-back victories on Tuesday to advance to the quarterfinals of the 120th Utah Women’s State Amateur Championship at Oakridge Country Club in Farmington, Utah.
Banz achieved an undefeated day by defeating teammate Berlin Long in the Round of 32 and Utah Tech’s Gabrielle Roznicki in the Round of 16.
In the Round of 32, Banz earned a 6-and-4 victory over Long. After taking a 3-up lead through nine holes by winning holes 2, 5, and 9, Banz won holes 11, 13, and 14 to close the match.
During the Round of 16, Banz and Roznicki traded holes on numbers 2 and 3. Banz won four of the following six holes to lead by 2-up after the front nine. Wins on holes 10, 12, and 13 resulted in a 5-and-4 victory.
Banz stated that match play is fun because anything can happen. She expressed gratitude for playing against talented players like Berlin Long and said she is excited to continue her efforts in the upcoming rounds.
Other results from the tournament included Aadyn Long advancing to the Round of 16 after defeating Sunbin Seo 1 up, before losing her next match 2-and-1.
Grace Summerhays defeated Ava Schroeder 5-and-3, following Schroeder's 2-and-1 victory over stroke-play medalist Braylyn Bayer. Sophomore Nya Palmer won her opening match 2 and 1 but was later defeated 4 and 3 in the Round of 16.
The championship continues Wednesday with the quarterfinals and semifinals. Banz is scheduled to face New Mexico State golfer Rylee Salome in the quarterfinals at 7:40 a.m. MDT. Live scoring can be accessed at golfgenius.com.
