Hopkins shoots 1-under 71 to lead Class 6A at Hillcrest CC

BARTLESVILLE — An eagle and two birdies led to a 1-under round of 71 and a four-shot lead for Bartlesville’s Faith Hopkins after the first round of the Class 6A State Championship on her home course Hillcrest Country Club.

The Oklahoma State signee’s superb effort kept the Bruins in the thick of the team race as well, just three shots behind Jenks (333) and one shot ahead of Edmond North at 337. Bixby, led by Natalie Gough’s round of 75, second best in the tournament, is third at 344.

Hopkins eagled the par-5 seventh hole and added two birdies to overcome strong winds and a fast-running course in which the Bermuda fairways and roughs have only just begun to fill in after a rough winter.

“It’s been my dream since I was little to win a state title and I haven’t got the job done yet,” Hopkins said. “I’ve tried the last couple of years and have fallen short. To win it on my home course with all my family and friends here, it would mean the world to me.”

Hopkins said her extensive experience on the demanding Hillcrest layout was invaluable.

“It means a lot, especially on this course,” she said. “The best thing is knowing where not to miss.”