Lexington, KY- The 17^th ranked Patriot Men's golf team opened the season in Lexington, KY today at the Asbury Fall Invitational. After completing the first 18 holes, the team stands in 1^st place with a score of 281 (-7) and a 22 stroke lead over Indiana University Kokomo who sits in second place.

Leading the way for the Pats was Junior, Gustav Barden. Last season, Barden recorded an 18-hole score of 67 in the second round of Nationals. Today he carded an 18-hole score of 66 (-6) to which marks a new career high performance. Barden tallied five birdies on the day, two of which came on Par 5's. The junior sits in 1^st place going into round 2.

Cumberlands was able to secure 1^st, 2^nd and 3^rd place standings after today's outing. Directly behind Barden is William Ekeroth. The freshman carded a score of 68 (-4) in his first outing as a Patriot. Ekreroth had two eagles on the day, each of which was shot on a par 5 hole.

Also making his freshman debut is Hampus Nilsson, who recorded a score of 72 (E). Nilsson shot three birdies on the day which helped secure his third place standing.

Rounding out the Patriot team score is Jarryd Elliott and Imanol Camba. Elliot garnered a ninth place tie after his performance today. The Junior carded a score of 75 (+3) with four birdies on the day. Imanol Camba is tied for 13^th with a score of 76(+4).

Competeing as individuals for the Cumberlands was Jaime Crispi and Brayden Reid. Crispi ties his teammate Elliot in 9^th place with a score of 75 (+3). The sophomore brought in one birdie on hole 14. After todays round, Reid is tied for 21^st with a score of 78 (+6). Reid carded two birdies on the 6^th and 12 holes of the course.

UC tees off at 9am tomorrow to finish up in Lexington at the Asbury Fall Invitational. The team looks to secure their first place standing and bring home a Patriot win.

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