Mason, Ohio - The Western Kentucky men's golf team returned to the Xavier Provident Invitational on Oct. 14-15, a site where they walked away with the tournament in record-setting fashion last season, and left missing both their title and their 54-hole record. The Hilltoppers won the XU Invitational last year by setting tournament records for 18 holes (276), 36 holes (562) and 54 holes (854). Despite four top-30 finishes from his golfers, head coach Brian Tirpak's squad was unable to repeat as tournament champions, giving way to Wright State. The Raiders capitalized on a first-place effort from senior Jesse Hutchins, who finished at minus 12, to card an 853, good enough to steal WKU's title and eclipse their 54-hole record by one stroke.
Freshman Robby Shaw led the way for Western, tying a career low with a 69 in the final round, to grab a share of 11th place with a three over for the event. Sophomore Sam Smith, playing in his first event of the fall, tied for 16th with a three-day total of 218. Seniors John Mullendore and Adam Cox posted a pair of 220s, giving them both a share of 30th place. Cox's 220 total came on the strength of a career-low 69 in the final round. Senior Jared Topmiller followed closely behind, tying for 39th place with a 221 total.
The Hilltoppers still hold XU Invitational records for low 18-hole and 36-hole totals. Western returns to action Oct. 28-29 at the Stonebridge Invitational.
-WKU- 
