BROOMFIELD — Kent Denver coach Bob Austin said what seemingly everyone was thinking: Beau Schoolcraft played the Class 4A state golf tournament like a professional.
“He’s one of the greatest players that’s played in this state,” Austin said Tuesday after Schoolcraft easily won the 4A title with a 5-under-par 137. “I truly really believe that.”
Schoolcraft was a man among boys again Tuesday, shooting a tournament-low 3-under 68. The senior opened the two-day event Monday with a 69, and he finished six shots better than teammate Matt Schovee (143).
Kent Denver’s foursome — including seniors BJ Smith and David Hanley — won the team title by 29 shots over Pueblo Centennial. Chad Novak paced Pueblo Centennial with a two-round total of 150, tied for seventh.
“I’m just happy our team won,” Schoolcraft said. “That was the first goal. Winning the individual was just a bonus.”
Said Austin: “I’m thrilled, lucky and honored to coach some great kids, with four seniors and great leadership. These guys are all-world kids that played in state four years, and this a great reward their senior year.”
Schoolcraft came in Tuesday two shots ahead of Schovee and 2005 champ Nick Umholtz of Greeley Central, but quickly extended his lead. Schoolcraft was 4-under after nine holes. Schovee shot a 72 on Tuesday, and Umholtz struggled with a 77.
“It took a lot of pressure off, which was nice because I haven’t been in this situation before,” Schoolcraft said of his four birdies on the first nine holes. “A lot of credit goes to my parents and golf coach, Mike McGetrick.”
Austin said he could sense Schoolcraft was going to have a great tournament because he had been playing well coming in.
“I’m not surprised by his score,” Austin said. “I can’t tell you how proud I am of him, and I know how important it is to him.”
Mike Chambers: 303-954-1357 or mchambers@denverpost.com
