InterWest Wildcat Classic - Final Results

CHICO, Calif. --- A 1-under par 71 by freshman Michael Butler (Sammamish/Skyline) helped Western Washington University maintain its position in the final round Tuesday and finish fifth in the the Chico State Interwest Wildcat Classic at Butte Creek Country Club.

The Vikings had their best round of the tourney Tuesday, shooting a 5-over 293 to finish the 54-hole event at 23-over 887, two shots back of Dominican and five behind third-place Simon Fraser.

"It was a steady day," said WWU coach Luke Bennett. "We had a couple guys battling illness, which took its toll, but I'm encouraged by the way the team finished up."

Brett Johnson (Jr., Ridgefield) was Western's top finisher despite playing through illness Tuesday, ending up ninth at 3-over 219 after a final-round 75. Butler was tied for 15th at 5-over 221. His final round, one of just five under-par rounds on the final day, included an eagle at the par-5 13th.

Another freshman, Cody Roth (Bellingham), finished tied for 27th at 225 after a final-round 73. Chris Hatch (Jr., Mukilteo/Kamiak) was also at 225 after a final-round 74, and Jeffrey Marcum (Jr., Richland) was tied for 38th at 228 (78).

"Michael and Cody carried the team today, we had a good chat last night and they responded well," Bennett said. "Michael was very patient today. We saw the golf we know he can play."

Cal State San Marcos won the team championship with a 3-over par 867, moving past Chico State in the final round to finish six shots ahead of the host Wildcats. Dylan Healey of Cal State San Marcos claimed medalist honors at 5-under 211, shooting a 73 on Tuesday.

The Vikings return to competition Oct. 19-20 at the Cal State Monterey Bay Invitational.