VASSALBORO, Maine — By all accounts, it was a tremendously successful season for the Houlton golf team with the Shires finishing as state Class C runners up Saturday at the Natanis Golf Course.
Mattanawcook Academy of Lincoln was crowned the Class C state champs as the Lynx golfers shot a combined 326 on the day. Houlton was second with a 340.
“I knew we were playing for second place,” Houlton coach Dave Grant said. “I felt if we could stay with MA, we would have a great shot at finishing as runners-up. MA’s top two golfers are extremely tough.”
MA’s Logan Thompson was the top overall golfer with a 70 (2 under par), followed by teammate Max Woodman at 75.
Houlton’s Wyatt Harvey was third as he shot a 78 to lead the Shires. Harvey will compete this coming weekend in the state individual golf championship, also at Natanis.
“Well it wasn’t really working out in the beginning, but after a few holes I got into a rhythm,” Harvey said. “Then on the front nine, I was just hitting everything really pure and all my shots felt good. It felt really great to be on top for the Houlton team and third overall in Class C.”
Grant said Harvey, a junior, has come on strong the past few weeks through sheer determination and passion for the game.
“Wyatt loves the game of golf,” the coach said. “He puts in a lot of time. He practices all the time and has the ability. His mindset is very good. He can think his way around the golf course.”
Shire Drew Marino tied for seventh with an 84, while Nick Brewer tied for 10th with an 86. Isaac Vega shot a 92, while Devin Ivey shot a 128.
“I am pretty pleased with our season,” Grant said. “We finished 16-1 in the regular season, with the only loss coming to MA. The kids gave me all the had.”
