Virginia Men’s Golf Rallies to Tie for Sixth at Pauma Valley Invitational

PAUMA VALLEY, Calif. – The No. 2 University of Virginia men’s golf team surged into a tie for sixth place at the Pauma Valley Invitational on Wednesday (March 18), carding a 10-under 274 in the final round. The Cavaliers’ impressive performance included four counting scores all under 70.

Cavaliers’ Final Round Performance

Virginia’s final-round score of 274 was the best of the day by three strokes, propelling them up the leaderboard. Ben James led the charge with a 68, followed by Paul Chang (68), Michael Lee (69), and Maxi Puregger (69).

Individual Standings

Senior Ben James finished as UVA’s top individual performer, tying for fifth place with a 6-under 207 (71-71-68). This marked his seventh top-five finish in seven starts this season. James carded five birdies, including two on his final four holes, and his 207 was his second-best 54-hole score of the season.

Graduate student Paul Chang’s consistent play throughout the tournament resulted in a tie for eighth place at 5-under 208 (70-70-68). He totaled 14 birdies over the three rounds, the fourth most in the 92-player field.

Freshman Michael Lee recorded a 69, featuring three birdies and only one bogey. It was his best round in team competition since a 67 at the Puerto Rico Classic in February. Sophomore Maxi Puregger also shot a 69, with four birdies, including two on his final two holes.

Tournament Highlights

Chang and James both excelled on par-5 holes, tying for the best scoring average in the field at 6-under (4.33). As a team, Virginia and Oklahoma State shared the best scoring average on par-4s at 4.04 (6-over).

Ben James extended his school record with his 32nd top-10 finish of his Cavalier career.

Final Team Results

Tennessee and Georgia Tech shared the top spot at 16-under 836. Florida and LSU tied for third at 13-under 839. Virginia finished in a tie for sixth place at 6-under 846.

Up Next

Virginia will send select individuals to the Golden Horseshoe Intercollegiate in Williamsburg, Va. (March 23-24) before competing at The Calusa Cup in Naples, Fla. On April 6-8, the final regular-season road tournament for the Cavaliers.