Libby freshman Ryggs Johnston and other Class B golfers will pursue state trophies at the upcoming championship tournaments.
Huntley is hosting the boys state tournament at Pryor Creek Golf Course while Billings is holding the girls state tourney at Eaglerock Golf Course, May 17-18.
Johnston, one of the top young golfers in the West, is a top contender for individual honors at the boys tournament. The Libby freshman fired an 8-under 64 at Trestle Creek Golf Course last week to win the St. Regis Invitational. In late April, he set a tournament record at the Thompson Falls Invitational at River’s Bend Golf Course, shooting a 68. He was one stroke shy of the course record.
Reigning state champ Joey Peter, a senior at Manhattan, is back to defend his title as a top contender, along with Bigfork senior Joseph Potkonjak, who tied for second a year ago. Peter won a year ago at Eaglerock with 68-77—145. Potkonjak shot 76-73—149. Thompson Falls is the reigning team champion after slightly edging Manhattan a year ago. Bigfork tied for third as a team last year.
On the girls side, last year’s champ, Missoula Loyola’s Sadie Crippen, has graduated, leaving the top spot up for grabs. Loyola won last year’s team title.