Choudrant, Louisiana, September 8, 2025
News Summary
The Western Kentucky men’s golf team delivered a strong performance at the Argent Financial Classic, finishing the first round at 2-under par 286, tying for sixth place. This remarkable score is the lowest 18-hole record in the event’s history. Junior Gage Doyle led the team with a score of 70, tying for 10th overall. With a total of 21 birdies, WKU aims to improve their standing in the upcoming rounds of the tournament, held at Squire Creek Country Club in Louisiana.
Choudrant, Louisiana – Western Kentucky Men’s Golf Team Jumps to Sixth Place After Strong Opening Round at Argent Financial Classic
The Western Kentucky men’s golf team made a strong showing at the Argent Financial Classic, finishing the first round with a score of 2-under par 286. This performance places them in a tie for sixth on the tournament leaderboard, just one stroke behind the fifth-place team and two behind the fourth-place team.
WKU’s score of 286 is significant as it represents the lowest 18-hole score in the history of the Argent Financial Classic. Additionally, the Hilltoppers achieved the third most birdies in the tournament, recording a total of 21 birdies. The team also tied for the fourth best average on par 4s with a score of 4.08 and on par 5s with a score of 4.50.
Leading the way for WKU was junior Gage Doyle, who finished with a score of 70, placing him in a tie for 10th overall. Doyle started strong, going even after the first seven holes, and showcased his skill by scoring four birdies over the last 11 holes of the round. Freshman Will Easterlin also contributed to the team’s success, ending the round at 1-under par and tying for 22nd place.
Other notable performances included junior Rafe Blankenship with a score of 72, tying for 35th place, and sophomore Trevor Drew who finished at 1-over par, landing in a tie for 49th. Redshirt-freshman Ethan Smith recorded a score of 2-over par, placing him in 63rd.
Coach Austin King expressed satisfaction with the team’s preparation and performance, noting that it was “definitely a good start to the week.” The second round of the Argent Financial Classic is set to continue on Monday, offering the Hilltoppers a chance to improve their standings.
Key Performers Overview
| Player | Score | Position |
|---|---|---|
| Gage Doyle | 70 | T13 |
| Will Easterlin | 71 | T22 |
| Rafe Blankenship | 72 | T35 |
| Trevor Drew | 73 | T49 |
| Ethan Smith | 74 | T63 |
Background on the Argent Financial Classic
The Argent Financial Classic is an annual golf tournament held at the Squire Creek Country Club, attracting teams from various universities. The competition offers student-athletes an opportunity to showcase their skills and compete for recognition at both the regional and national levels.
What’s Next for WKU?
Looking ahead, the Western Kentucky men’s golf team is aiming to build upon their solid start as they continue in the tournament. With their position just outside the top five, they are poised to challenge for higher placement in the following rounds.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Argent Financial Classic?
The Argent Financial Classic is an annual college golf tournament held at Squire Creek Country Club in Choudrant, Louisiana, featuring teams from various universities.
How did WKU perform in the first round?
WKU finished the first round with a score of 2-under par 286, placing them tied for sixth overall.
Who were the top performers for WKU in the tournament?
Junior Gage Doyle led the team with a score of 70, followed by freshman Will Easterlin with a score of 71.
When does the second round of the tournament start?
The second round of the Argent Financial Classic is scheduled to continue on Monday.
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Additional Resources
- WKU Sports: Men’s Golf – Hilltoppers Shoot 2-Under for Round One of Argent Financial Classic
- Wikipedia: Collegiate Golf in the United States
- BG Daily News: Western Kentucky Women’s Golf
- Google Search: Argent Financial Classic
- WKU Sports: Men’s Golf Opens 2025-26 Season at Argent Financial Classic
- Google Scholar: College Golf Tournaments
- WKU Sports: Men’s Golf Schedule
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Golf
- BVM Sports: Men’s Golf Opens 2025-26 Season at Argent Financial Classic
- Google News: Western Kentucky University Golf
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