Fast Start for Locals

This weekend marked the season opener for the Symetra Tour, and three women who played their college golf in Colorado certainly were quick off the mark, with all three finishing in the top five on the tour that bills itself as the “Road to the LPGA.”

Former University of Colorado golfer Jessica Wallace was in position for the victory, sharing the lead in the IOA Championship heading into the final hole in Beaumont, Calif. But a long three-putt from the fringe left her with a runner-up finish, one stroke behind champion Erynne Lee, a former UCLA golfer who won in her Symetra Tour debut. Lee eagled the 16th hole to give herself the opportunity to win. She closed with a 65.

Wallace (pictured) carded rounds of 69-67-70 for a 10-under-par 206 total. She earned $9,649 for her runner-up showing.

A former CU teammate of hers, Jenny Coleman, tied for third place at 207 (68-71-68), picking up $6,243. And former University of Denver golfer Sue Kim placed fifth at 208 (72-69-67), receiving $4,413 in prize money.