Freshman Meridith Hawkins soars to first at Wingate Pinehurst Challenge

Meridith Hawkins (Powell, Tenn.) took the number spot in round one Monday at the Wingate Pinehurst Challenge in Pinehurst, North Carolina.

The freshman not only leads her team, but also the tournament with a score of 74 (+2). Two strokes behind Hawkins is sophomore Danielle Baiunco (Melbourne, Fla.) who is tied for second after a round one score of 76 (+4).

As a team, the Eagles are tied for third with conference opponents, Lincoln Memorial University.

The Eagles bested three other SAC schools for the opening round and only trail fellow SAC competitor Wingate by a stroke.

UNC Pembroke is the club house leader by four strokes.

The Eagles will aim for a tournament championship when round two begins Tuesday at The National Club course.