by Nick Nochevich Post-Tribune correspondent September 17, 2011 11:08PM
Updated: September 18, 2011 2:03AM
DEMOTTE — Twin Lakes continued its sectional dominance as it posted its 14th consecutive title with a five-shot win over North Newton at the Kankakee Valley girls golf sectional at Sandy Pines Golf Course.
The surprise of the sectional was North Newton, which advanced to the regional for the first time with a team score of 400.
Rensselaer and Kankakee Valley battled for third, with the Bombers coming out ahead by one stroke, 402 to 403.
“I am extremely pleased with the performance of our girls for they did not come out and shoot their best but remained consistent, as they have been throughout the season,” North Newton coach Barbara Peregrine said. “We are extremely excited to be advancing to the regional.”
Despite losing out on the final qualifying spot by one stroke to Rensselaer, Kankakee Valley coach Ron Stanton was proud of his team and optimistic for its future.
“It is disappointing to lose out by one stroke, but we have a great group of girls that will be here for another two years and will continue to improve, I am certain of that,” Stanton said.
The individual medalist of the sectional was Lowell’s Vicky Nichols, who shot an impressive 90 on the always challenging Sandy Pines course.
“When I finished my round I was told I was the leader but didn’t believe it at first,” Nichols said. “I focused on my game and appreciate all the help I have received from my team and especially my father — he and I have worked very hard this year and the effort paid off today.”
Rensselaer’s Bobbie Jo Culp and Twin Lakes’ Taylor Russell tied for second place, each shooting 92.
Nichols advances to the regional for the first time and will be joined by the Kankakee Valley duo of Tara Beere and Emily Tucker, who shot 94 and 95, respectively.
They were the top three golfers not on the three qualifying teams.