Cougars win state golf title

From left: Pat Whisenant,Taylor Bunten, Anna Redding, Annie Collom
 and Kate Collom. COURTESY OF BETH COLLUM

Cannon School repeated as private school girls’ golf champions, winning by 26 shots over second-place Durham Academy Oct. 24 at Mid Pines Golf Club in Pinehurst.

The Cougars, under the direction of first-year coach Pat Whisenant, shot a combined low score of 249.

Junior Kate Collom and sophomore Anna Redding led the way, tying for second place with their 18-hole score of 82.

Sophomore Annie Collom shot an 85 while classmate Taylor Bunten posted a 94.

The Colloms sisters and Redding were named to the all-state team.

“It's been a real honor to be a part of this run and these girls, who are great players and people,” Whisenant said. “They lifted each other up when they weren't putting well today and pulled it together for a state championship.”

Cannon was equally as impressive last year, when the Cougars won by 22 shots. The Cougars have beaten 25 of their last 26 opponents in the two-year span. Their only loss on the course was to defending 2A state champion Salisbury last year.

- Jay Edwards