Colin Hymes – Mustangs Ahead

(LAKEWOOD RANCH, FL) - Both the Lakewood Ranch High School (LRHS) boys and girls golf teams have officially punched their tickets to next week's FHSAA Class 3A State Championships after strong performances in the regional tournaments.

The boys team took the Region 3 Championship on Thursday at Saddlebrook Resort in Wesley Chapel, defeating second place Sarasota by eight strokes.

The victory marks the Mustangs' fifth consecutive regional title. The Mustangs have been ranked among the top five teams statewide throughout the season.

Leading the boys was senior team captain Donny Plakyda, who shot an even par 71 to finish third individually. Senior Owen Gellatly and junior Will Thomas each shot a 75, while junior Alex Makarewicz shot 78 and sophomore Trey Susa finished with a 79.

Across 16 tournaments and matches this season, the boys hold an impressive 176-27 record.

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The Lady Mustangs also secured its spot at state, finishing third in the 3A Region 3 tournament at Bobby Jones Golf Club. The Lady Mustangs shot a team score of 300 to earn their at-large state championship berth.

Freshman Jade MacFarland led the way with a 69, tying for second place individually. Junior Wilda Kuang shot a 73, junior Anne Yu shot a 74, and freshman Liana Odendal shot an 84.

Both teams will now turn their attention to the FHSAA Class 3A State Championships, scheduled for November 13-14 at Mission Resort in Howey-in-the-Hills, Florida. Both teams will look to carry their regional success into the state tournament.