The Mexico girls golf team was on the road Tuesday competing at the Kirksville Tournament. The tournament is always competitive and one that the Lady Bulldogs have historically found challenging.

Mexico golfers had some struggles on the first couple holes but once they became acclimated, there was improvement from each team member.

Leading the way was Lilly Knipfel (41-42-83) who continued to impress for MHS, winning the tournament. She shot a 83, with a 41 on the front nine and 42 on the back nine.

MHS coach Lindsey Yancey called Knipfel’s win “exciting” and credited the senior for her strong play in a competitive tournament.

“Kirksville Country Club has become known on our team as the tournament where a players’ short game makes or breaks their round for the day,” said Yancey.

Greens are mowed tight and when approaching the green it can take some strategic thinking as to the best way to stick the shot on the green without rolling off, and the type of shot will vary from the position and lie the player is approaching from.

“This is a great challenge for all the players competing in the tournament, not just for our team,” said Yancey. “Going into the competition, we knew this would be the first priority of the day, to make the short game adjustment, but sometimes that can take several holes”.

Kennedi Rowe was just two strokes from medaling as well.

Here’s how the team fared: Knipfel 41/42-83; Rowe 52/52-104; Morgan Craig 67/60-127, and Shadora Foy 71/70-141.

“I'm always proud of these girls,” said Yancey. “They approach every tournament with good attitudes and are ready to learn from each round. I was thrilled to see each of them keep their head down and keep working, always striving to improve”.

Mexico will host the North Central Missouri Conference Tournament on Monday. The tee time is 9 a.m.