MILLINGTON, Tenn. – The Gustavus women's golf team opened competition at the Rhodes College Joe and Lee Duncan Invitational, sitting in eighth after round one of a talented field. NCAA DII Mississippi College leads the way, with a three-under 285 at the Mirimichi Golf Course in Millington. Individually, Mississippi's Tina Honnef and Piedmont's Erin Donovan are tied for first, shooting a two-under 70.

For the Gusties, its the sophomore dynamic duo of Maren Masters (Shakopee) and Riley Zebroski (Watertown, S.D.) leading the team. Both sit tied for 20th after day one, carding a five-over 77. Each grabbed at least one birdie on Monday, with Masters picking up two before the end of the day. 

"Today was pretty smooth sailing for me," Masters said. "Coming off an injury is never easy, but I think I did everything I wanted to do today."

Zebroski shared her teammate's excitement. "Today was a great day on a beautiful course with some tough competition. I'm excited to see what the team can bring tomorrow."

Behind Masters and Zebroski was Kenna Henriksen (Fy., Olivia) who carded a round one 82 for 44th. Lauren Hubbart (Jr., Hastings) is in 57th with an 86 and a day one birdie, while Emily Kolb (Jr., Sioux Falls, S.D.) is in 64th with a 94.

"The players surpassed their best team score this season by 19 strokes on a challenging course they haven't played before competing against nationally-ranked teams in Division III," commented Assistant Coach Sarah Wolter. "Memphis has had almost seven inches of rain over the past few days, including during the round today, and the players persevered to play some of the best golf I've seen all season. They were laser-focused and played up to their potential. It was a great day to be a Gustie – they made the College proud."

The Gusties have two more rounds in Tennessee tomorrow.