Stevenson’s Conan Pan wasn’t pleased about his performance at last week’s Class 3A Barrington Regional.
Even though the Patriots advanced to the sectional, Pan acknowledged disappointment over carding an 86.
“I just didn’t play well at regionals,” Pan said. “I was really upset because I put a lot of effort and time into golf, and to shoot an 86 at a really important meet like regionals is bad. I just went out and practiced a lot, put in a lot of work.”
His hard work made a big difference at Tuesday’s Palatine Sectional.
Pan, a sophomore, shot a 1-under 71 to win the sectional at Palatine Hills Golf Course. Pan set himself for a big day by shooting 2-under through the first four holes en route to a 34 on the front nine.
Stevenson’s Jackson Bussell, the depending state champion, tied for fifth with a 74.
After placing second at state last season, Lake Forest is headed to Bloomington’s The Den at Fox Creek Golf Course aiming for a championship. The Scouts captured the sectional title with a 296.
Stevenson, which finished third at state last season, took second with a 301. Barrington (305) also advanced.
Pan, also a tennis player, said that 10 years ago he first picked up golf. He called the sectional victory another milestone in his budding career.
Last season, he finished tied for 35th at state — second-best among freshmen. Pan credited the fast start to shaving 15 strokes from his regional score.
“My mental game was the difference,” Pan said. “I didn’t get too excited after the first four holes. It feels good to have a comeback after a lot of bad rounds this year. I was really happy and proud that all my work and time paid off. I’m hoping I can continue to play well at state.”
Pan closed out his stellar day by sinking a 10-foot putt for a birdie on 18.
Stevenson coach John Rueth said Pan was focused to bounce back strong at sectional.
“After regionals, Conan was really upset with himself and thought he let the team down,” Rueth said. “He’s a quiet and determined player. He played so well on the last few holes. His iron play coming down the stretch was really good.”
Lake Forest senior Danny Fisher, a second-year varsity member, tied for second with a 72. The Miami, Ohio, recruit shot a 35 on the front nine, while teammates Sam Davis, Patrick Moorhead and Jack Marshall all carded 75s.
“I struggled a bit on the back nine but I felt I played good overall,” Fisher said. “My driver throughout the first 12 holes was fantastic and I had chip shots on a lot of the greens. I didn’t make a ton of mistakes.”
Bob Narang is a freelance reporter for the News-Sun.
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