AUBURN, WA (May 15, 2017)--While three NCAA Regionals elsewhere are being led by teams playing their home course, the Florida State Seminoles have made themselves at home at the NCAA West Regional, shooting a six-under 278 for a two-shot lead over USC.
Playing nearly 3000 miles from home, the Seminoles were led by senior Josh Lee of Orange Park, Florida. Lee shot a four-under 67 to sit in solo second behind USC's Sean Crocker, who had the round of the day with a seven-under 64.
Cristobal del Solar shot a 69, Corey Carlson had a 70, Bennett Baker shot 72 and Harry Ellis had a 73 for the Seminoles.
Two shots back at 280 are the Trojans of USC, who might have led if they didn't have to count a 78 toward the team score. Crocker led the way, shooting a 29 on the front nine and getting to seven-under through twelve holes, before parring in for his 64. Justin Suh sits tied third individually with a 68, and Rico Hoey (70) also recorded an under-par round.
Crocker is currently 5th in the Golfweek/AmateurGolf.com World Amateur Rankings
Also in contention are the University of Alabama at 283, Kent State and Texas A&M at 287, and San Diego State and Penn State at 290.
Tied for third at 68 with USC's Suh are Nick Carlson of Michigan and Steven Setterstrom of Alabama.
The low five teams and the low individual not on a qualifying team will qualify for the NCAA Championship, to be held at Rich Harvest Farms in Elk Grove, IL, May 26-31.