Sun Country (SCAGA) Amateur Championship

ALBUQUERQUE, NM (June 25, 2006) -- Steve Saunders from Albuquerque, who will be a sophomore for the University of New Mexico Golf team this fall, earned his first Sun Country Amateur Championship Sunday at the Championship Golf Course at UNM. Saunders finished the event at 8-under par 208. He carded rounds of 69 Friday and a 67 Saturday before doing what he needed to in finishing Sunday’s action with an even-par round of 72. Saunders was the only player in the field to shoot even par or better during all three rounds of the championship. Upon receiving the championship trophy, Saunders acknowledged those on hand with praise for the conditions during the event. “I would like to thank everyone involved,” noted Saunders. “The course was in great condition and I look forward to coming back next year.” Robb Bierbaum, another player for coach Glen Millican at UNM finished in second, 6-strokes off the pace with a 214 total. Opening day leader Alex Estrada finished in a tie for third place with Nick Geyer at 1-under par 215. The Sun Country Amateur Championship has produced many great players who have had successful professional careers. Included in the list of champions is Tommy Armour III (1980), Bart Bryant (1984-1985), Rich Beem (1992), DJ Brigman (1996, 1998) and Madalitso Muthiya (2003-2004), a recent qualifier for the US Open. For complete results, click on the tournament link above.