Pina Gentile Assistant Coach | University of Illinois Division of Intercollegiate Athletics Website
Pina Gentile Assistant Coach | University of Illinois Division of Intercollegiate Athletics Website
Isabel Sy achieved co-champion status at The Chevron Collegiate after a strong performance in the final round. Playing at the Golf Club of Houston, Sy carded a 4-under 68, marking her first individual medalist title.
"For today's round I had no expectations going into it and did not really have an idea where I was placed," said Sy. "I just wanted to play the same way I always do and make the most of the opportunities that I get. I made a 20-footer for birdie on my last hole, not knowing that it would tie me with the lead. I then found out that I would be named co-champions officially while I was eating lunch with the team."
Sy expressed gratitude for those who supported her journey, sharing, "I was overwhelmed with joy and could not be more grateful to everyone who has been a part of my journey. It was great to enjoy the moment with one of the most important people who made it possible."
Starting one stroke behind, Sy quickly advanced by birdying two of her first three holes. She maintained composure throughout, securing another birdie on No. 12 before clinching victory with a decisive birdie on No. 5. This marked her fifth consecutive Top 5 finish since October 2023.
Over three rounds in Texas, Sy bogeyed only three times while achieving 15 birdies—fourth highest among competitors—and led in par 4 scoring (3.67, -10).
Head coach Renee Slone praised Sy's accomplishment: "I am so happy for Isabel to earn her first collegiate win," Slone stated. "She has played some outstanding golf this year and has been knocking on the door... We knew her time was coming... I'm very proud of how she managed... today."
The Illini finished ninth overall with an even-par score of 288 on their final day and a total tournament score of 853 (-11). Other notable performances included Yurang Li's Top 25 finish at tied-for-22nd after shooting a final round of 71 (-1), Erica Lee tying for 37th place following consistent even-par rounds, Anna Ritter tying for 75th despite challenges in her third round, and Lexanne Halama placing 80th.
SMU claimed the team title at The Chevron Collegiate with a score of -33 (831), while Maryland's Nicha Kanpai shared individual honors alongside Sy.
The Fighting Illini will compete next at Briar's Creek Invitational starting March 11 in Johns Island, South Carolina.
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