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KĀ’ANAPALI, Maui – University of Hawai’i men’s golfer Tyler Ogawa delivered a commendable performance, carding a second consecutive even par 71 during the second round of the Kā’anapali Classic Collegiate Invitational on Sunday, held at the picturesque Royal Kā’anapali Course.
The talented senior currently shares the 64th position at even par 142. His round was highlighted by four birdies, including impressive conversions on the challenging first and the final 18th holes. In contrast, Josh Hayashida showcased a standout round for the Rainbow Warriors, finishing at 1-under 70, featuring a spectacular eagle on the par-5 No. 6 hole. The junior now finds himself tied with Ogawa as they head into the eagerly anticipated final round on Monday.
Meanwhile, Oklahoma has significantly extended its lead in the team standings, now commanding a five-stroke advantage over Kansas. The Sooners have put together an impressive total of 31-under 537, while Kansas closely trails with a total of 542. North Florida (543), Indiana (543), and Colorado (544) round out the top five teams in the competition. In individual standings, OU’s Jaxon Dowell dominates with an outstanding performance at 13-under 129, followed closely by East Tennessee State’s Kristian Bressum at 131, while a group of three golfers remains within striking distance just three strokes back.
U.H. golfer Dane Watanabe recorded an even par 71 for the round, bringing his tournament score to 2-over 144, which places him in a tie for 83rd position. Anson Cabello, who previously shot even par on Saturday, faced challenges during his round, resulting in an 82 that positions him in 118th place at 153. James Whitworth also struggled, carding a score of 79 and landing in 119th place at 154.
Three Warriors are competing as individuals – Skylor Taylor posted a score of 78 for a total of 155, tying for 120th; Nathan Szpakowicz performed slightly better with a score of 74 and is also tied for 120th with the same total of 155; while Quinn Murray scored 76, placing him in 123rd at 158.
The tournament is set to conclude on Monday, commencing with an 8:30 a.m. shotgun start.
21. Hawai’i – 291=578 (+10)
T-64. Tyler Ogawa – 71=142 (E)
T-64. Josh Hayashida – 70=142 (E)
T-83. Dane Watanabe – 71=144 (+2)
118. Anson Cabello – 82=153 (+11)
119. James Whitworth – 79=154 (+12)
Individuals
T-120. Skylor Taylor – 78=155 (+13)
T-120. Nathan Szpakowicz – 74=155 (+13)
123. Quinn Murray – 76=158 (+16)
#HawaiiMGOLF
**Interview with Tyler Ogawa, University of Hawai’i Men’s Golf Team**
**Host:** Welcome, Tyler! Congratulations on your performance at the Kā’anapali Classic Collegiate Invitational. You carded a second consecutive even par 71. How are you feeling about your game this weekend?
**Tyler Ogawa:** Thank you! I feel pretty good about my game. It was definitely a solid round for me. I managed to stay consistent, which is always the goal, and I was really happy with the way my putter was working today.
**Host:** You mentioned that you had four birdies during your round. Could you walk us through your favorite moment on the course today?
**Tyler Ogawa:** Absolutely! I think my favorite moment had to be the birdie on the 18th hole. It’s such a challenging hole, and hitting the green in regulation and sinking that putt felt great. It was a nice way to finish the day, especially knowing that I played well throughout the round.
**Host:** Your teammate Josh Hayashida had a great round as well, finishing 1-under 70. How does it feel to have such strong support from your teammates?
**Tyler Ogawa:** It’s awesome to see Josh perform so well! We push each other during practice and it’s great to see it translate into good rounds during tournaments. It creates this positive energy within the team, and we all want to support one another as we move into the final round.
**Host:** Oklahoma is leading the team standings right now. What will be your strategy in the final round to help the team close the gap?
**Tyler Ogawa:** We need to stay focused and keep the momentum going. For me personally, I’ll stick to my routine and aim for consistency. If we can continue to cascade our scores and maybe catch a few lucky breaks, we have a chance to make it exciting.
**Host:** Thanks for your insights, Tyler. Best of luck in the final round tomorrow!
**Tyler Ogawa:** Thank you! We’re looking forward to it!
