Tuesday, March 13, 2001

Johnson City, Tenn. -- After capturing the Birkdale Collegiate Classic last weekend, the East Tennessee State men's golf team moved up to 13th place in the Golfweek/Sagarin collegiate golf rankings.

Led by senior Patrick Beste's individual medal, the Bucs won their first tournament title of the season. Beste captured his second career tournament championship (2000 Southern Conference Championship) by shooting a 3-under par 141 (73-68) in his two rounds of play.

The Buccaneers were dominant at the Birkdale Classic, with all five ETSU players finishing in the top-14. Sophomores James Johnson and (73-71--144) Thomas Lee (73-71--144) tied for fourth. Senior Chris Wisler (17th in the Golfweek/Sagarin individual rankings) finished in fourth after firing a two-round 147 (71-76). Sophomore Adam Riddering tied for 14th, shooting a 148 (75-73).

The Buccaneers return to action in the Schenkel E-Z Go Invitational on March 24-25 from Statesboro, Ga.