Fresno State's Siebert Wins Kitahara Invitational

Junior Taylor Siebert clinched her first collegiate win at the 2008 Kitahara Fresno State Invitational Tuesday. Siebert led the Bulldogs who tied for sixth at their annual home tournament at Copper River Country Club.

The no. 31 ranked Tulsa won the team title with 14-over par beating out UC Davis by three strokes. Kansas slipped to third after shooting a second round of 301 to finish 21-over.

Fresno State tied Hawaii for sixth place after shooting 299-305 - 604 to leave the Bulldogs 28-over par.

Siebert, the Selma native set the stage for her stellar win with a birdie on the 18th hole. Upon the approach of the 18th hole there was a five-way tie for first place at one-over par. With a crowd surrounding the green Siebert was cheered on as she sunk her 12-foot birdie putt not knowing she had won.

"I don't look at scorecards because I don't want to get ahead of myself," said Siebert. "I just thought they were excited that I made the putt."

The 18th hole played the hardest and Siebert's birdie was the only one off the hole throughout the tournament. Siebert posted a 73-71 - 144 to break even in the two-day tournament.

"It's exciting because I have worked so hard to get ready to win," Siebert said. "It's a great way to start the spring season. I have more confidence now to go out and win again knowing I have one under my belt."

"I'm so proud of Taylor," said head coach Angie Cates. "She has really made a commitment being a better golfer and to work hard on her mental game and that is what got her the win today."

Laura Luethke tied for 20th with two back-to-back scores of 75 to finish 6-over par. Hali Coppin (77-75 - 152) tied for 30th and Pia Escandon (74-84 - 158) tied for 50th place. Angeliica Villareal (82-86 - 168) finished in 84th place.

"We saw some good things today," Cates said. "We know what we need to do to keep improving and after watching Taylor win they will be motivated and continue to keep working hard."

Playing as individuals Tiffany Derksen tied for 46th place with 13-over 157 and Chelsea Czinski tied for 50th with 14-over after improving with a 76 in the second round. Whitney Yano tied for 71st place with a 80-82 - 162 and Marissa Patterson withdrew from the second round.