El Dorado All-State golfer Aubrey Marx hopes to carry her experience of competing at the prestigious Pinehurst Resort in the National High School Golf Invitational into her senior season with the Lady Wildcats.
Marx tied for 142nd in the tournament, featuring high school state champions from around the country.
“Going into the tournament I did not really have any concerns, I felt like I prepared myself the best I could. I would play and practice golf even when my friends and sister were busy because I knew I would need the practice later on,” Marx said.
The lefty scored a three-day 274. She shot 88 on Pinehurst No. 6, a 90 on No. 9 and a 96 on No. 8.
Marx, who competes on the ASGA golf circuit, said the courses were challenging. But competing against the nation’s elite players was more eye-opening.
“High School golfers participating in the tournament from around the U.S. made me a little nervous because I didn't know what to expect,” she said. “But I quickly learned that they just wanted to have the experience and loved the game as much as I do. I played with people from the South, North and Midwest.”
Marx, who helped lead El Dorado to the 5A state championship last year, will use the rest of the summer to hone her skills for the high school season, which tees off in August. Of her play at Pinehurst, she felt her skills improved.
“While playing the courses, my skill level with my driver and my wedge was getting better. I became more accurate with my driver and hit more fairways. At the tournament I used my wedge a lot and got better and more familiar with the club,” Marx said.
“I would like to improve on putting because short game is the hardest part of the game.”
El Dorado's high school season tees off on August 2 with the Simmons Bank/Wildcat Invitational,which will be held at the Lion's Club.