FORT COLLINS, Colo. – The UC Santa Barbara Golf team hit the green for their first tournament of the fall season as they traveled to Fort Collins, Colorado for the Ram Masters Invitational hosted by Colorado State. After three rounds of golf at Fort Collins Country Club, the Gauchos finished in 16th place.
 
"It was an eye-opening experience for the crew," said Head Coach Chris Massoletti. "Four out of our starting five this week never competed in a D1 collegiate event and it showed. Too many unforced errors that experienced players don't make. I'm happy that we improved each round as it shows we can learn from our mistakes and improve. That's the goal this season, improve every event."
 
After a slow start in the opening round, the Gauchos were able to shave down some strokes in the following days. Ryan Gay was consistent all weekend shooting two 73's and a 72 to end his tournament and finish T-61.
 
Jackson Turner battled his way around the course all weekend. After an opening round 77, the Thousand Oaks native bounced back with a 75 and 69. Turner was the only Gaucho to record an under-par round with his 69. Nick Waldock was another Gaucho to improve his score each round. He opened the tournament with a 75 but would go on to lower his score by two strokes on day two and two more strokes on day three.
 
UC Santa Barbara will have the next two days off before competing in their next tournament, the Gene Miranda Falcon Invitational hosted by the Air Force Academy. This event will take place at the Academy's Eisenhower Golf Course from Saturday, Sept. 21 through Monday, Sept. 23. The Gauchos will begin golfing at 7:30 a.m. PT on Saturday.