Bulldogs on Par-fection Run

By: Shelia Mader

The Marianna High School golf team is off to a red-hot start this season, posting three straight victories and making a statement on the links.

On Tuesday, the Bulldogs traveled to Tallahassee to square off against John Paul II and Aucilla Christian. They came away with first place, carding a team-low 169. Aucilla Christian finished close behind at 178, while John Paul II rounded out the trio with 206.

Marianna’s steady play was paced by Creed Whitworth, who turned in the team’s low round of 36. Jackson Kent followed with a 41, while Rathan Barnes added a 45 and Andrew Law closed out with a 47. The Lady Bulldogs did not compete in the Tallahassee matchup.

Back on their home course Thursday, the Bulldogs proved their consistency, notching their third consecutive victory. Marianna took first with a 171, edging out Seacoast Collegiate at 177 and Chipley just a stroke behind at 178. Altha finished with a 190.

Once again, Whitworth led the way with a 38, followed by Barnes at 42, Kent at 44, and Mason Lewis with a 47.

The girls also took the course Thursday, with Seacoast capturing the team title with a 215. Marianna followed with a 228, while Chipley and Altha competed individually. Faye Olsen turned in the Bulldogs’ best round at 49, tying for the overall girls’ low score. Emma Poole finished at 58, with Emma Leavins carding a 60, and Paige Lawson coming in with a 62.

Marianna’s hot start hasn’t gone unnoticed. According to Florida Championship, the Bulldogs are currently ranked fifth among 1A public schools statewide through September 2. With Whitworth leading the pack and a strong supporting cast delivering consistency, the Bulldogs have their sights set on keeping the momentum rolling all season.