This year’s Golf Nationals proved to be a record high turnout of 23 member institutions represented, and 100 individual entries.  Coming out of the pack on top following Tuesday’s final was Tommy Stirling, of Southern Maine Community College.  Stirling, a sophomore from Gorham, Maine was brilliant in his final round, carding a four-under 68, beating Bo Cook of Lindenwood by four strokes.

Stirling shot even on day one, despite having seven birdies.  Heading into the finals, Stirling was focusing on not following pars and birdies up with bogeys.  “[My game plan] was trying to focus on making pars and keep focused instead of having an up and down performance,” stated Stirling.  The four-under performance makes Stirling tournament medalist and the individual champion for the USCAA.  When asked how it feels to win a title, Stirling said, “I have never felt this accomplished in athletics.  The hard work I put in paid off.” 

That it did.  In fact, Stirling stayed at the course for three and a half hours after shooting an even 72 on Monday.  “I was putting the best I ever had.  I wanted to hit the range and hone in on my chipping for the final,” said Stirling.  One thing is for certain; Tommy Stirling is a shining example of what practice and determination can do.

Additionally, the USCAA recognizes the top of the field as All-Americans.  Those award winners and their scores are listed below.

2011 USCAA All-Americans