By LEXI LIM
Staff Writer
Ellen Takada (Sr.) and Samantha Cabunag (So.) are among the 36 golfers who advanced to the second round of the CIF playoffs, reaching the cut-off score of 76. Nodoka Honda (Fr.) also qualified for CIF, but narrowly missed the cut-off score required to reach the next round.
Honda started off well and had pars, but shot 77, one stroke above the required score to make it to the next round. At the fourth hole, the ball landed on the edge of the green and rolled out of bounds, resulting in a double bogie.
Honda said, “I was scared, but happy that I made it to CIF my freshman year. I feel really accomplished, but I know I have to make improvements, like playing under pressure for future seasons.”
Cabunag shot a score of 76 and had to compete in the playoffs after the match because eleven girls were tied and only five could advance. Cabunag said, “It was a relief that I was able to continue. I put a lot of unnecessary pressure on myself and it messed with my performance, but I’m just grateful that I was able to make it to CIF again.”
Takada, previous OC Varsity athlete of the week, shot even par 71 during the first round of CIF individuals. She made birdies and finished the first nine holes -1, but struggled with the greens. On the last hole, Takada stuck in a foot and made a birdie. She placed 6th overall.
Takada said, “This season has been great and I’m excited for the next round of CIF. My teammates have been supportive throughout season and I am looking forward to competitive along with them for team CIF next week. I hope we can make it into the top three teams and continue to play the game we love.”