Cindy Sterling, Robson Ranch Tournament Chair
When faced with this year’s COVID-19 pandemic, we didn’t think we would be able to hold the Dallas Baptist University’s (DBU) Classic Tournament. When the DBU coach called and said the NCAA is considering letting them hold the tournament here at Robson Ranch, with some COVID-19 restrictions, we were very excited. This would be the first NCAA Division tournament that would be held in 2020 with COVID-19 restrictions. The DBU coach was able to find 11 teams whose administrations would allow them to travel and to play in a three-day tournament. The dates were set Sept. 20 through 22. We had one team travel from Idaho, and this was their first Division II tournament. For many of the teams that had committed to come in 2020, their colleges are still not playing golf.
The tournament took on a different appearance than 2019, as the ladies stayed in a nearby hotel, they were only allowed to play with their teammates, and not much interaction with the Robson Ranch residents. Sunday was an afternoon practice day; Monday was a challenging 36 holes, and they finished up on Tuesday morning with their last 18 holes. Jeremy and his team prepared breakfast, lunch, and dinner for participants over the three days.
We had a great three-day tournament although a little on the wet side on Tuesday morning, and “Boy Howdy” DBU took home the first place trophy and had the first and second place winners. Congratulations to the DBU ladies golf team and first place winner, freshman Olivia Mitchell, and second place senior, Hanna Harrison.
We are looking forward to the Division II Regionals that will be held here at the Ranch, spring 2021.
A special thank you to all the Robson Ranch volunteers; we could not do these tournaments without your commitment.