ROCK ISLAND, Ill. — The UW-Eau Claire men's golf team sits tied for third after the opening round of the Highland Championship. Karsen Kruse leads the Blugolds and is tied for first on the individual leaderboard after firing a 4-under 68. Kruse carded seven birdies on the day, including five on the front nine.

Luke Taebel led the Blugold "A" team with an even-par 72, highlighted by four birdies, putting him tied for eighth overall. Spencer Lynch followed with a 1-over 73, making five birdies during his round. Michael Markley and Samuel Forslund each carded a 2-over 74 and are tied for 25th, while Reis Von Ruden rounded out the "A" team with a 4-over 78.

The UW-Eau Claire "B" team sits tied for fifth, led by Kruse at the top of the individual leaderboard. Cameron Stenzel and Johnathan Amtmann each carded a 3-over 75, followed by Bennett Madson with a 4-over 76. A.J. Diller rounded out the "B" team with a 14-over 86.

UW-Eau Claire returns to the course at 8 a.m. Sunday, Sept. 6, for the final round of the Highland Championship.