Carnoustie's Jess Meek T8 after first round

 of UCF Challenge at Orlando

ORLANDO, Fla. – No. 23 ranked Missouri University Women's Golf is tied for third out of 16 teams following the first round of the UCF Challenge on Sunday. The Tigers shot a collective 301 (+13) and are six shots back from the lead. Senior Michelle Butler (Dunedin, Fla.) is tied for first individually (-1) and was one of only two players to card a sub-par round in abnormally cold Florida weather on Sunday.
"Relative to the weather today, I believe we competed pretty well," head coach Stephanie Priesmeyer said. "The wind really affected our putting. We stressed to the team last night about being patient in these conditions and keeping everything in perspective. 
"We handled the adversity pretty well and learned a lot on the day. We are expecting more of the same wind and chilly conditions the next two days and I'm confident we will keep getting stronger."
Butler and Emily Penttila of Tulane were the only competing players to shoot under par with respective scores of 71. Butler recorded four birdies during the round, including three on the front nine.
"Michelle was really good today," Priesmeyer said. "Her approach shots were outstanding. She has been so dialed in this year as our only senior. It is a lot of fun to watch her execute."
Junior Jessica Meek (Carnoustie, Scotland) is tied for eighth after carding a 1-over 73. Sophomore Clara Young (North Berwick, Scotland) shot a 5-over 77. Freshmen Emma Allen (Southampton, England) and Amanda Kim (O'Fallon, Mo.) shot 80 and 81, respectively.
Houston leads the tournament after shooting 295 (+7) while Texas is in second after carding a 299 (+9). Mizzou is tied with Iowa State and Augusta in third place.

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