HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — After day one of the NJCAA Division I National Tournament the Indian Hills golf team is in first place.

The Warriors battled windy conditions and a tough course to take the first round lead with a 295 total in Huntsville, Ala.

Four-time national champions Midland College is in second with a 299. Defending NJCAA champs Scottsdale Community College is in third with 304.

“The course was playing very tough,” Indian Hills coach Mike Hagen said. “It was maybe one of the hardest golf courses I’ve ever had one of my teams play on.”

Difficult or not, Indian Hills found a way to shoot low scores. Playing on the same course it did this fall, Indian Hills used the familiarity to its advantage Tuesday.

“We knew it was a tough course coming in — we played the preview down here last fall,” Hagen said. “I think we were only one of three teams to break 300 last fall. I knew anything around 300 or under 300 would put us in the mix. We are talented enough, the guys just relaxed and picked around the golf course.”

The Warriors’ Chris Dougill leads the field after shooting a first round 70.

“Chris didn’t play exceptionally well this spring in his eyes, but he’s a solid player,” Hagen said. “I just had a feeling coming down here he would play really well for us. It’s only one round, but it’s a heck of a start.”

Balance was also key to Indian Hills’ success on day one. Steven McGlynn, Jake Weeber and Nate Smith all shot a 75 on Tuesday.

“Nate Smith played real steady today and all spring,” Hagen said. “Jake’s really picked it up the last month and a half.”

Eric Anfinson shot a 77 for Indian Hills, but his score didn’t count towards Indian Hills’ 295 total.

Not every team in the field was able to complete its first round on Tuesday as rain delayed a couple of the final scores. Today, Nate Smith will be the first Warrior off the tee at 12:50 p.m.

At River Trails Course

5-20-08

Par 72