May 10, 2023
Ana Maria Jimenez Rios Wins NCAA Regional; Spartans Advance to Nationals
GAINESVILLE, Ga. – Ana Maria Jimenez Rios led the way as the individual medalist as the University of Tampa women's golf team advanced in its season, qualifying for the NCAA National Championships. The Spartans would finish inside the top-five, placing fourth to continue play in the 2022-23 season.
INSIDE THE MATCHUP:
UT Finish: 4th, 906 strokes, +42 (304-309-293)
Team Champion: Lynn University, 890 strokes, +26
Host: NCAA
Location: Chattahoochee Golf Club | Gainesville, Ga.
Total Rounds: 3
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SPARTAN LINEUP:
- Ana Maria Jimenez Rios | 1st overall, 217 (+1)
- Laila Forstmane | 20th overall, 228 (+12)
- Emily Montagnino | 20th overall, 228 (+12)
- Ella Mason | 39th overall, 234 (+18)
- Emilie Bjørge | 55th overall, 242 (+26)
OTHER NOTABLES:
- Jimenez Rios was the tournament champion for the third time this season, and second of the spring.
- The NCAA South Region champion, Jimenez Rios accomplished a feat only done by Kiira Riihijarvi, who was a two-time champion in 2019 and 2021.
- After an opening round 74, Jimenez Rios carded a 71 in Tuesday's round and finished play with a 72 on Wednesday. Her second-round score represented the top round for a Spartan.
- Jimenez Rios has finished a total of five tournaments as the top UT golfer this season.
- A total of 12 teams competed.
- Tampa competed as the nation's No. 11 team. All 12 teams were nationally-ranked as No. 1 Lynn was the team champion. No. 6 Anderson (S.C.) was second while Nova Southeastern placed third.
- Jimenez Rios competed as the nation's No. 23 golfer. Also ranked for UT are No. 33 Forstmane and No. 50 Montagnino.
- A stellar effort by Jimenez Rios allowed her to finish ahead of the nation's No. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8 and 10 ranked individuals.
UP NEXT:
The Spartans next head to the NCAA Championships, scheduled for May 16-20 at Fox Run Golf Course in Eureka, Mo.