By Susan Jenior

Staff Writer

This is the first season for the Division I State Championship to be hosted by NCR Country Club in Kettering.

Last year, Liam Curtis of Kent Roosevelt advanced to the state tournament at the Ohio State University Golf Club, Scarlet Course in Columbus, earning All-Ohio honors in seventh place.

Curtis’ success at the state continued on Monday at NCR, firing a 1-over-par 71, good for third place after 18 holes.

“It was a tough day, conditions wise, with cold, raining and windy conditions,” said Ben Curtis, coach of the Rough Riders. “It made it difficult to get the ball close. Liam had a good short-game day.

“He didn’t hit the ball too well off the tee,” said said Liam’s father, coach Curtis, “but, when he did, that’s when he took advantage and made those birdies he needed.

“Liam had a strong finish after a few bogies in the middle of the round. He’s in good position, and we will see how it goes tomorrow.”

Curtis tees off 10:50 a.m. on Tuesday for his second (and final) 18 holes of the state tournament.

OHSAA DIVISION I BOYS STATE TOURNAMENT DAY ONE

(At NCR Country Club, Kettering – Par 70)

TEAM STANDINGS: Olentangy Liberty 292, Archbishop Hoban 295, St. Xavier 302, Dublin Jerome 307, Hudson 307, University School 312, Medina 318, Anderson 319, Thomas Worthington 319, Archbishop Moeller 325, St. Francis de Sales 343, Sheridan 346.

KENT ROOSEVELT (Individual): Liam Curtis 71 – Third among individuals after first day.