Hickstein swings for records against wind

Battling wind and rain, Alpine Hickstein, sophomore of Chadron, finished first and set two Chadron State records, Sunday, at the El Cheapo Classic in Pueblo, Colorado.

“Being able to set both of those records feels amazing,” Hickstein said in a message to the Eagle. “I’ve been waiting for two years to shoot under par and I finally was able to. I know that I can beat both again, which is my next goal.”

Hickstein beat 76 golfers shooting 70-80-150 and setting the individual round record and tournament scores record. She led the way for the CSC golf team that finished fifth of 14 schools. 

The competition was cut from two days to a single, 36-hole day due to poor weather forecasted for Monday. Despite the schedule change, weather during the tournament wasn’t ideal, Hickstein said, with the wind blowing throughout the day and overcast conditions for the final 18 holes.

“The last six holes or so we were competing with the rain too,” Hickstein said. “I think the CSC women held it together very well considering the conditions we played in for 36 holes straight. We showed how mentally and physically tough we really are.” 

Kinsey Smith, freshman of Windsor, Colorado, finished the 36-hole day tied for 20th, with a score card of 83-79-162. 

The team will travel to Goodyear, Arizona, next for the RJGA Palm Valley Classic, April 2-3. 

“If I am able to speak for the team, I would say we are all just going to sharpen our skills within the next week now that the snow is gone and we can get outside for practice,” Hickstein said. “Personally I want to work on my chipping and continue to get back into the swing of things outside.”