The Sacramento State women’s golf team started its 2026 season on September 14 at the Branch Law Firm/McGuire Invitational held at the UNM Championship Course in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The defending tournament champions held sixth place after the first day, which was shortened due to lightning suspending play during the second round.
During the morning’s opening round, Sacramento State recorded three even-par rounds, led by sophomore Sophia Lee and freshman Emilia Schneider. Lee posted mostly pars with a birdie on the par-4 10th hole and a bogey on the par-4 6th. Schneider’s front nine included three birdies and three bogeys, finishing the round at even par after additional bogeys and birdies on the back nine.
Senior Ashley Koga competed as an individual, shooting even par in the first round and remaining even after four holes when play was halted. Darla May Dela Torre was third on the team at two over par after the first round, finishing strong with a birdie at the par-4 6th during her final 11 holes. Tova Hatton scored three over par in the first round.
Play was stopped during the second round with players having two to four holes left to complete. At that point, Lee stood at one under par and was tied for ninth place overall. Dela Torre was one over, Hatton three over, and Koga even par. Team-wise, UNLV and Pepperdine were tied for the lead at seven under par, followed by New Mexico, Montana State, and UTEP. Sacramento State was in sixth place with a team score of 12 over par.
Competition is scheduled to resume the following day with completion of the second round, immediately followed by the third round.
CSB Take
The lightning-induced suspension of play on the opening day posed an early challenge for Sacramento State’s women’s golf team defending their tournament title. Their position in sixth place with unfinished business leaves a window for upward movement, notably supported by promising performances from Sophia Lee and Emilia Schneider. How the Hornets respond when play resumes will be pivotal in setting the tone for their season and their efforts to retain the championship. The steady start despite interruptions suggests resilience that could benefit their campaign moving forward.
Source: Original report
