BULLARD -- The UT Tyler men’s and women’s golf teams started their 2011 season with two strong second place team finishes and men's medalist honors at the Tyler Junior College Invitational played Monday and Tuesday at Oak Hurst Golf Course.

Junior John Dukes finished first overall in the men’s tournament, shooting a first-round 71 and a sizzling four-under 68 on day two.  The 68 was the lowest round recorded of the tournament by any golfer.  Junior Joey Rippel tied for a third place finish overall, shooting a two-round total of 144. 

The Patriots shot a team total of 585, just one stroke behind eventual team champion McLennan Community College.

An equally-impressive tournament was had by the the Patriot women, who shot a two-day total of 639, just two strokes behind team winner Texarkana Community College. 

UT Tyler senior Callie Rice finished third overall for the tournament, shooting a 78 on the first day and a 79 on the second day to lead the way for the Patriots.  Senior Danica Weddle finished in fourth place for the tournament, firing an 80 on day one and a 78 on day two.

The Patriot women will hit the course again on Oct. 3 at the UT Tyler Invitational, whle the men will cross state lines late this week to take part in the Rhodes Invitational in Tunica, Miss., beginning Saturday.