Rinker Fires 71 In Opening Round Of Outerbanks Invitational

POWELLS POINT, N.C. – The Bowling Green State University men's golf team completed the first round of the 4th annual Outerbanks Invitational on Sunday afternoon (Oct. 20), firing a team score of 299 (+15). The Falcons are currently sitting in ninth place in a field that featured 18 teams that competed on the Kilmarlic Golf Course.

Second year head coach Kevin Farrell showcased five Falcons on the day. Joe Cooper, Chris Melvin, Jose Narro, Brett Rinker and Ryan Triller all competed in a field that featured 93 players. Farrell's lineup all shot in the 70's on the first day.

As a team, Bowling Green had 11 total birdies on the day, and added 51 pars. The Falcons had the most success as a team on the par-5 holes with a 4.85 stroke average, and finished the day at 3-under on the five lengthy holes.

Rinker led the Orange and Brown with an even-par 71 (35-36). Rinker was able to find his comfort zone on the five par-3 holes, averaging 2.80 strokes (-1) on the day. Rinker will enter tomorrow tied in ninth position overall.

Melvin, who was the lone senior playing for the Falcons, stayed consistent throughout the day. After firing a 37 on the front nine, Melvin walked into the clubhouse with a 36 on the back, finishing with a 73 (+2) for the day.

Triller and Cooper, who are the two juniors on the roster, also competed for Farrell. Triller carded a 6-over-par 77 (37-40), while Cooper finished the day with a 7-over-par 78 (37-41).

Narro, who has averaged an impressive 72.44 strokes per round, was the fifth player that competed for the Falcons on the day. Narro carded a first round 78 (+7) after firing back-to-back 39's on both sides.

The same five will be right back in action tomorrow morning.

Player Scores:
Brett Rinker: 35-36—71 (E)
Chris Melvin: 37-36—73 (+2)
Ryan Triller: 37-41—77 (+6)
Jose Narro: 39-39—78 (+7)
Joe Cooper: 37-41—78 (+7)