The Student Newspaper of Highline College

Akshay Rabadia/THUNDERWORD

Thunderbirds shine at Centralia Invitational

Zaith Mavesere Staff Reporter Oct 12, 2023

The Highline College golf teams recently took part in the highly competitive Centralia Invitational at the scenic Riverside Golf Course. The two-day event featured impressive performances by both the women’s and men’s golf teams from Highline College. 

Highline’s women’s golf team had an outstanding performance during the Centralia Invitational, which showcased their dedication and skill on the course. Esther Sibbet led the charge for the Thunderbirds, securing the fifth position overall with a total gross score of 175. She carded an impressive 83 in the second round, significantly improving her standing from the first day.

Cienna Cabrera also displayed exceptional talent, finishing sixth overall with a total gross score of 177. Momoka Mizutani, with a total gross score of 200, secured the 14th position overall. 

As a team, the Highline Women’s golf team landed in fourth place overall, posting a collective score of 552. The tournament featured some notable rivals, including Centralia College, Skagit Valley, and Olympic, who secured the first, second, and third positions, respectively. 

The men’s golf team also proved their mettle at the Centralia Invitational. David Sibbet’s exceptional performance earned him the top position overall with a total gross score of 142, marking an impressive performance that included two rounds at par.

Kaden Clark, Derek Kaapana, and Keiane Silimon also demonstrated their skills, contributing significantly to the team’s performance. 

The men’s team secured fourth overall in the tournament, posting a total score of 659, with a total to par gross of +91. Their notable rivals included Southwest Oregon, Skagit Valley, and Olympic, who claimed the first, second, and third positions, respectively. 

Following their remarkable performance at the Centralia Invitational, the Thunderbirds continued their journey on Oct. 9-10 by hosting the “Indian Summer” tournament, with results unavailable at press time. This home event was an opportunity for the Highline College golf teams to showcase their skills on familiar turf and build upon their successes.

The Thunderbirds are now preparing for their next challenge. On Oct. 15-16, they will compete in the South West Oregon Invitational at the Crossings, where they will aim to continue their winning streak and make their mark in the world of collegiate golf. 

The dedication and hard work of the players, along with the support from their coaches and fans, are evident in every swing and putt. As the golf season progresses, the Thunderbirds are sure to build on their accomplishments and set their sights on even greater achievements.