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The St. Thomas men’s golf team took first place at the 2011 MIAC championship Monday at Bunker Hills Golf Course in Coon Rapids.

St. Thomas went into the final day in first place and ended the day champions beneath a clear October sky.

Freshman Alex Kapraun tied for first in the championship, leading his team to victory.

“I hear it’s been 30 some years since St. Thomas has won (a championship), and it’s great to be part of that as a freshman,” Kapraun said.

Junior player Michael Mortenson was excited about his team’s position going into Monday.

“It is exciting to be in a position to win this tournament. It’s going to be fun to get out there today, and we have a perfect day for it,” Mortenson said.

The team shot 302 Saturday, 293 Sunday and finished Monday with 302 with a 33-over-par overall. Individually Kaupraun finished 5-over-par.

Women disappointed in sixth place finish

The St. Thomas women’s golf team, however, did not fare as well. The Tommies came into Monday in sixth place and were unable to move up the ranks.

Senior Shannon Richter began Monday optimistic.

“We are going into today pretty confident and all ready to shoot 70s,” Richter said. “We are still in the run for the top three or four.”

Coach Sara Evens believes her team didn’t play to its potential on Monday, but she was happy with the younger team members.

“They (juniors and seniors) definitely have more ability than what they shot today, but my freshman and sophomore played great,” Evens said. “I guess that is one thing to look forward to, but I definitely think we are capable of playing better.”

Patrick Roche can be reached at roch6667@stthomas.edu.