Russia captured the OHSAA Southwest District Boys Division III Sectional Championship, leading a field of 16 teams and 78 golfers at Shelby Oaks Golf Club.
Playing under sunny skies with temperatures climbing into the upper 80s, Russia posted a team score of 315 to secure a four-stroke victory over Botkins. Botkins finished second at 319, followed by Minster at 340, Anna at 341 and Lehman Catholic at 342. All five teams advanced to the District Championship.
Russia freshman Oliver Armstrong earned medalist honors with a 1-over-par 73. Botkins junior Treg Meyer finished one stroke behind with a 74, while Anna senior Reece Pettit and Minster senior Hayden Linn shared third place after rounds of 77.
Cedarville senior Xavier Pauling led the five individual qualifiers advancing from non-qualifying teams with a 78. He was joined by Fort Recovery freshman Cam Lefevre and Jackson Center sophomore Cannon Hazelbaker, who each shot 81, and Triad senior Cohen Millice, who recorded an 82.
The final qualifying position required extra holes after four golfers finished tied at 83. Fairlawn senior Garret Maddy ended the playoff quickly, making birdie on the first extra hole—No. 1 on Shelby Oaks’ West Course—to claim the fifth and final individual berth.
Up Next: The District Championship
The qualifying teams and individuals will advance to the Boys Division III District Championship on Monday, September 28, at Heatherwoode Golf Club. Grounds passes may be purchased through the OHSAA ticketing website.
Congratulations to all the advancing teams and individuals, and special thanks to Shelby Oaks owner Rob Fridley, General Manager Jon Brading, Golf Course Superintendent Kelly Norris and the entire Shelby Oaks staff for hosting the championship.
