Burroughs places fourth at Magnolia Park Optimist Club Invitational
BURBANK — About a week prior, Malia Suarez learned she would be a part of the Burroughs High golf team for at least one round of competition.
Suarez had been flourishing on the school’s junior varsity team throughout the first part of the season, leading to the sophomore earning a promotion.
Suarez took advantage of her opportunity, as she carded a nine-over-par 44 on Thursday to capture the ‘B’ flight competition during the 15th annual Magnolia Park Optimist Club Invitational at De Bell Golf Club.
PHOTOS: Magnolia Park Optimists Club Girls’ High School Invitational at DeBelle Golf Club
“It’s just an honor to win it,” said Suarez, who played on the Burroughs No. 2 team. “I’m kind of star struck right now because there are so many great players who were here.
“When I was told I’d be playing, I was excited. I was able to hit some very good tee shots that landed on the fairways. My short game was OK, but things worked out.”
Senior Alexis Poche of Burbank carded a 45 to place second in the B flight.
Elisa Pierre of Golden Valley had a 33 to capture the A flight.
Burroughs’ No. 1 team carded a 183 to take fourth in the 20-team event for the second year in a row. Granada Hills took first with a 150, followed by West Ranch (157) and Chaminade (182).
The Indians, who will be heading to the CIF Southern Section playoffs in late October, received a 41 from Ashley Phelps, 44 from Raelinn Arnold, 48 from Annie Adachi and 50 from Maddie Riggs to edge Pacific League-foe Arcadia by two strokes. Phelps had the best area score on the day.
“A lot of things are going well for the team and it’s great to finish that high again,” Burroughs Coach Greg Everhart said. “I’m happy for Malia because she’s worked so hard. She’s been working out since the summer looking to improve.
“Clearly, we brought her up at the right time. Also, she’ll provide the team with depth.”
Poche said a fine short game helped her throughout the nine-hole round.
“Some things worked out well and I made some putts,” Poche said. “I just had to stay focused and take each shot for what it was.”
Crescenta Valley’s No. 1 team tied for ninth with San Marino and Marymount at 193. The Falcons got a 43 from Emily Redecker, 44 from Gloria Namkung, 48 from Cathlyn Junio and 59 from Yena Cho.
“It’s our first opportunity to see teams from outside the area,” Crescenta Valley Coach Grant Clark said. “You get to see good players from other areas and you get a better idea of what you need to improve on down the road. It’s great exposure for our team.”
Burroughs’ No. 2 team finished 11th at 199. The Indians received a 47 from Bella Nava, 52 from Katy Kuoppala and 46 from Samantha Mazo. Burbank took 13th, getting a 47 from Amy Tran, 50 from Olga-Marie Davis and 65 from Erin Tanner.
Crescenta Valley’s second team got a 50 from Vienna Bebla, 51 from Michela Labellarte, 57 from Cherish Kim and 69 from Ani Gharapetian to place 16th.
