March 28, 2024

PCM boys golf return to state after district victory

The Class 2A No. 1 Prairie City-Monroe boys golf team has been one of the best in the state this season, and on Thursday it earned its chance to officially defende that title.

Led by a 71 from medalist Justin Beener, the Mustangs shot a 309 to top second-place Des Moines Christian by 17 strokes at Panorama National Golf Course in Panora and punched the ticket to their fifth state appearance in six years.

“I’m so happy for these kids. They have really put in a lot of work here lately and it’s really paying off,” PCM coach Mike Smith said. “I told them I was thinking 320 would be a very good score at this course, and they went out and beat it by 11 shots. We are playing some very good golf right now and it couldn’t come at a better time.”

Beener’s team-leading round was started with two birdies on the first three holes, and ended with six birdies all together to give him his first medalist honor. Finishing second on the team was junior Devon Woody, whose 75 placed him third overall. Senior Hunter Van Veen was next in with a 77 for fourth overall in the field, while senior Michael Neff rounded out the team scoring with an 85.

PCM’s final record of 92-2 tied the school record for most wins in a season. Up next for the Mustangs is the Class 2A state meet in Livermore, which will take place next Friday and Saturday.