LAKEWOOD, Colo. - Three members of the Colorado State University Pueblo men's golf program represented the ThunderWolves this weekend at the Bob Writz Invitational, hosted by the Colorado School of Mines at Bear Creek Golf Club in Lakewood. The individual event gave the Pack valuable competitive reps against a strong regional field and some of the toughest conditions of the young fall season.
Pack Performances
Leading the way for the ThunderWolves was Pueblo native Jayden Padilla, who shined in his collegiate debut, finishing 14th overall with a two-round total of 152 (+3). Playing in his first-ever college tournament, Padilla opened with a stellar 71 on Sunday and followed with a 76 on Monday. His poise and consistency throughout the weekend set the tone for CSU Pueblo, as he emerged as the Pack's top performer in his debut outing.
Luke Shelton, a transfer competing in his first event as a ThunderWolf, finished tied for 24th with a two-day total of 158 (+14). After an opening-round 81, Shelton bounced back with a 77 on Monday, displaying steady improvement and settling into his rhythm as he made his CSU Pueblo debut.
Paraic McGrath turned in another strong effort for the Pack, placing 23rd overall with rounds of 75 and 82 for a 157 (+10) total. McGrath's opening round positioned him among the top 20 early before closing the event with another competitive showing on Monday.
Rounding out the CSU Pueblo contingent was Evan Smith, who carded rounds of 86 and 79 for a 165 (+21) finish, tying for 32nd overall. Smith's seven-stroke improvement from round one to round two highlighted his resilience and adjustments on the demanding Bear Creek layout.
Event Overview
The event featured a strong mix of RMAC programs and regional talent, with Colorado's Michael Fang claiming medalist honors at 140 (+2). Host Colorado School of Mines filled much of the top 10, showcasing its depth in the field. The Bear Creek course challenged all participants with narrow fairways, penal rough, and fast greens, making ball control and course management essential to success.
