Hilburn Goes Wire to Wire for First Individual Golf Win in UTPB Program History

Colton Hilburn faced tough conditions early, and a late challenger, but in the end became the first men's golfer in UT Permian Basin history to claim any tournament's individual title. Hilburn finished the Ted &

Jodi Hogan Invitational at 2-under par, winning after a two-hole playoff a tiebreaker procedure.

"It's an awesome feeling. I'm glad I was able to get out early in the year and do it for my team," said Hilburn, a sophomore transfer from Texas State.

Early on conditions were windy causing higher scores on the course. After one round Hilburn was tied for the lead and one of only two players under par.

"The first seven holes it had to have been blowing 30 to 35 miles per hour," said Hilburn. "I was 3-under and knew the rest of the field probably was having a tough time. Just hit it well early on."

Hilburn stayed steady in round two, shooting a second consecutive 71. Jose Diblibox of Odessa College put behind a tough opening round to shoot 65 and finish tied atop the leader board. Both players birdied the two playoff holes to force a tiebreaker, which went to Hilburn. On the second playoff, Hilburn sank a seven to eight foot putt to birdie and force the tiebreaker.

"It's been since I was in high school since I had to go to a playoff," said Hilburn. "I was nervous but it was fun to capitalize on it."

The Falcons played well as a team at Ratliff Ranch Golf Course in Odessa. Connor Benjamin and Nolan Otto tied for fifth at 2-over par, while Parker Beaty and Brinson Vitello tied for eighth at 4-over par.

"I'm so happy for Colton," said Head Coach Kevan Schott. "He played really well all day and deserved the win. Our team played great and hope this is a sign for things to come."

The women only played one round, but the Falcons posted some low scores as well. Hailey Cernoch finished second with a 79, with teammate Emily Serrano right behind her with an 80

The men and women split next week. The men head north to Lawton, Oklahoma for the Hrnciar Invitational hosted by Cameron, while the women head west to El Paso for the RJGA Women's Shootout and the final contest of their fall schedule.