March 10, 2008

QUEENS, N.Y. - After the first two rounds of the Palmas Del Mar Invitational in Humacao, Puerto Rico, St. John's is tied for third overall with a 9-over 585. St. John's recorded a first round of 289 and a second of 296.

St. John's is up against some tough competition in a 13 school field highlighted by Virginia, Kentucky, USF, UConn, and Villanova. Virginia stands in first with 5-under 571 (289, 282) and Kentucky is in second with a 6-over 582 (293, 289).

The Red Storm, who is hosting the inaugural tournament, is led by senior co-captain Keegan Bradley who stands in sixth overall with a 1-under. Bradley put up rounds of 70 and 73. The All-American candidate's 70 in the first round is the third lowest score of the tournament so far.

Sophomore Mike Ballo Jr. has also put in an inspired performance, scoring 2-over 146, which is good enough to tie him for 12th. Ballo scored an even par 72 in round one and a 74 in the second. St. John's other sophomore, Evan Beirne (5-over 149) has also heated up, scoring a 72 in the second round, pushing himself into a seven-way tie for 23rd.

St. John's will finish the Palmas Del Mar Intercollegiate tomorrow morning with the final round of the par 72, 6771 yard course. For the most up-to-date scores, recaps, and info, please visit www.RedStormSports.com.