April 12, 2008

URBANA, Ill. - Battling wind chills in the upper 20s and a combination of rain/sleet, Loyola University Chicago turned in a solid effort in the opening day of play at the Fighting Illini Spring Invite this afternoon. Despite the unfavorable conditions, Loyola shot a 317 and is only four strokes out of third place and 31 shots behind current leader, DePaul (304).

Armando Favela, Robert Caplin and Dylan Gergen each fired a six-over 78 today to lead the Ramblers. Thomas Greene and Sean Bidzinski each carded an 83 to round out the Loyola lineup. DePaul's Cory Blenkush had the low round of the day, posting a two-over 74 in less-than-ideal conditions.

Due to the weather conditions, play was halted after 27 holes today. The teams will conclude the tournament with nine holes of golf tomorrow as the event is being shortened from its originally scheduled 54-hole format. Play is scheduled to commence at 8:30 a.m.

Team Results Thru Round One
1. DePaul - 304
2. Illinois - 309
3. Eastern Illinois -313
4. Southern Illinois -313
5. Illinois State - 316
6. Northern Iowa - 316
7. Loyola - 317
8. Detroit - 321
9. Western Illinois - 325
10. IUPUI - 331
11. Bradley - 335