Thursday, June 02, 2005

            OWINGS MILLS, Md. (June 2, 2005) - East Tennessee State sophomore Rhys Davies (Bridgend, Wales) posted a 4-over 74 during second round play in the NCAA Championships Thursday at the Caves Valley Golf Club. The four-round, four-day event will continue on Friday with third round play.

            Davies, who earned a spot in the championships with a second-place finish in the NCAA East Regional and entered the event as the No. 2-ranked player in the country by Golfweek, began the day's second round at 5-over-par for the event and now stands at 9-over.

            "I didn't have a great start again today," Davies said. "I fought through it and scrambled well at times, but this course is very long and if you are off target it punishes you because the rough is so thick."

Despite two tough rounds, Davies is realistic about his goals for the third day of play. Catching two of the nation's top players is a possibility, as UNLV's Ryan Moore and New Mexico's Spencer Levin are within striking distance. Making the 54-hole cut is also a goal.

            "Ryan Moore is only four strokes in front of me and Spencer Levin is only two strokes up, so with a low score I have a chance to catch them and help my overall (season) rankings," said Davies, who is currently tied for 99^th on the individual leaderboard. "A number of top players have struggled. Realistically, I need a low score to make the 54-hole cut."

            ETSU fans can watch Davies' progress live by clicking on the link provided and can get complete team and individual results by visiting Golfstat.com. Fans can also visit ETSUBucs.com at the end of each day's play for a wrap up on Davies' efforts.