Ricky Castillo recorded an even scorecard through four rounds to finish 12th in the field of 156.
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. – Ricky Castillo finished the fourth and final round of stroke play today at the NCAA Championships, posting a 1-under par 69 to even his overall scorecard and clinch sole possession of 12th place.
Advancing as one of nine individuals on non-qualifying teams, Castillo was the lone Gator in the fourth round. His twelfth-place finish was the highest of those individuals on non-advancing teams and he was one of only 15 golfers to post an under-par score in the fourth round.
The sophomore began the round with a bogey on the first hole, but responded with back-to-back birdies on the next two holes to quickly move under par. Another birdie on the eighth hole put him 2-under par and in great shape as he made the turn.
Castillo was quickly reminded of the challenges the back nine presents to golfers, carding two bogeys within three holes to even his scorecard. Recalibrating on the 13th hole, he strung together four pars in a row before dominating the 17th green for a birdie that brought his score back under par.
Castillo will continue the individual tournament season on June 11th when he competes for the United States in the 2021 Arnold Palmer Cup. The sophomore will face a few familiar faces on the international team as he competes against teammates Yuxin Lin and Joe Pagdin, as well as head coach JC Deacon.
Head Coach JC Deacon’s Take
On the round…
“That was such a solid round of golf. To shoot under par this afternoon was a very tough task. Getting to see all 18 holes up close was a clinic in what makes him so special. He is disciplined and talented at the same time. He plays exactly the way you need to when the conditions get this difficult – calm and mentally tough. So impressive.”
On Ricky Castillo…
“Another top-15 finish to round out an All-American season. He continues to be our leader and represents the Florida Gators with class. I couldn’t be more proud of him!”
From Ricky Castillo…
“I played really well today. I had a very solid week this week. I wish I could’ve seen a few more putts drop but all-in-all a very good week where I saw a lot of progress in my game.”
