The Shadow
HOT SPRINGS, Va. (VR) – The fairways of The Homestead played host to the Region C Golf Championship on Monday, where Auburn High School put together a strong and steady performance to capture the team title.
The Eagles’ depth was the difference, as four of their players finished among the top six individual scores, helping Auburn secure the regional crown and a berth in the Class 1 State Tournament. George Wythe claimed runner-up honors and also advanced as the second qualifying team.
George Wythe’s David Goode led all golfers with a standout 68, the lowest round of the day and the only score under 70. Auburn’s Gaston Wimmer and Carson Iroler of Galax followed closely at even-par 70, with Matthew Altizer(Auburn, 72), Liam Smith (Auburn, 73), and Cody Fleet (Auburn, 75) rounding out the top six medalists.
The three individual qualifiers not on advancing teams were Carson Iroler (Galax, 70), Owen Jackson (Fort Chiswell, 77), and William Ballard (Giles, 77).
In total, 32 golfers competed — including one female golfer, Jaelyn Turner — representing four full teams and seven individuals from Galax, Fort Chiswell, Giles, and Narrows.
The championship featured plenty of highlights, with five eagles and 47 birdies recorded across the field. Every Fort Chiswell golfer managed to birdie the eighth hole, while Auburn’s Gaston Wimmer came within inches of an ace on the par-3 second hole. Spectators said his shot “lipped the cup” before stopping less than a foot away.
Wimmer carded a 32 on the front nine, matched only by Goode’s 32 on the back, marking the day’s best nine-hole scores.
Scoring broke down with one sub-70, five sub-75, six between 75 and 80, and seven between 81 and 99, showing the region’s growing depth of talent.
Bath County, serving as host for the regional event, closed its season on a high note and with optimism for the future.
“It was a fun season that exceeded our expectations for our new golfers,” said Bath County’s coach. “It will be a fun show watching our freshman and sophomore team develop further over the next 2–3 years.” Bath County Golf Coach Lyle Kampf expressed his appreciation to the Homestead, they have served as Bath County’s home course. Kampf also stated that they have held the district. and regional tournament at the Homestead this year.
