Bentz wins District 4-AA golf title, eyes state championship
Jack Bentz won the individual District 4-AA title last week.
But he celebrated an individual District 4-AA title at Egwani Farms Golf Course in Rockford on Tuesday, Sept. 24.
He was one of two Oak Ridge players to shoot under par, firing a 4-under 66 to claim low-medalist honors.
Bentz, a senior who has already committed to Carson-Newman University, also helped the Wildcats secure a second-place finish in the district tournament. That qualified them for the Region 2-AA championships held Tuesday at Oak Ridge Country Club, their home course.
In addition to Bentz’s 66, Lewis Niad shot a 69, also finishing under par.
Freshman Kaleb Jackson carded an 82, and Hunter Hinton, battling back pain, finished with an 87.
Oak Ridge posted a team score of 304, just nine strokes behind district champion Maryville, marking the Wildcats’ first regional qualification in several years.
Bentz expressed optimism about his team’s chances of advancing to the state tournament, especially with the regional competition being held on their home course.
“I think we have a good chance to make it to state,” Bentz said.
“This is a great way to wrap up my high school career. I’ve enjoyed playing with my teammates and in junior tournaments, but high school golf is special because that’s what everybody sees. I couldn’t ask for much more than a chance to go to state. This is probably our best chance.”
For Oak Ridge to advance as a team, it must win the region title. However, any individual player can qualify for state, as well.
Although playing at home offers an advantage, Bentz remains cautious.
“It feels great to play at home, but every day is different,” he said.
While Bentz and his teammates look to extend their high school season, he is also excited about his future.
“I really can’t ask for more than the chance to play at Carson-Newman,” he said. “It’s close to home.”