Chip Shots

Hello Illini Nation!

With the majority of our spring break trip complete, here is a recap of our great trip so far! We began our break playing in the Briar's Creek Invitational hosted by the College of Charleston. This tournament has become a team favorite not only because of the great golf course, but also for the wonderful food they provide. The chef is amazing and we have never left the course with an empty stomach!

Unfortunately, the weather was a challenge the first day, but we weathered the storm and came back after a tough start. On the second day we fought our way up the leaderboard to a 5th place finish while posting this year's best 18 hole team score of 287 (1 under par) in the final round!

After the tournament, we traveled down the coast to Sea Island, Georgia. We have been very fortunate to stay at one of our Illini supporter's homes. It was such a delight to be in a real home again! We had the privilege to practice, play and tour around Sea Island for the last four days.

The Plantation course, Retreat course and Frederica Golf Club were in pristine condition and very welcoming to our team. We had a great time playing games and whipping up some home cooking too! We explored the historical sights of Fort Frederica, downtown St. Simons Island and the beach! Fort Frederica didn't just provide us with facts, but also a lizard friend that Emily and I caught near one of the cannons!

We also enjoyed a multitude of dinners, including one at Bennies Red Barn, a 1950's steakhouse. We all had great time! While driving to Florida, we stopped for local jams, jellies, preserves and, of course, pecans! Rounding out our mid-week activities we ended our trip with an extensive tour of TPC Sawgrass on our way to Jacksonville Beach, Florida. We saw the famous hole 17, the Fed-Ex Cup, President's Cup and The Players Championship trophies, we also stood in the same areas as some of the greatest players ever.

After our trek down the coast from South Carolina to Florida, focus will turn to our next and final portion of our spring break trip, the Web.com Intercollegiate in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida! Stay tuned and follow the action on Golfstat.com

I-L-L-I-N-I!!

Stephanie Miller