PUEBLO, Colo. — The Montana State University Billings women's golf team delivered a record-setting performance at the Southern Colorado Open, finishing tied for third with a 36-hole program-record score of 607 (309-298) at Walking Stick Golf Course.
The Yellowjackets' final-round 298 not only fueled their climb up the leaderboard but also tied for the second-lowest single round in program history. MSUB improved by 11 strokes from round one to round two, vaulting into a three-way tie for third alongside Texas A&M International and Colorado Christian in a competitive 15-team field.
MSUB backed up its historic performance with strong team statistics throughout the tournament. The 'Jackets ranked third in total pars (106) and tied for seventh in birdies (17), while excelling on the par-5s with a 4.90 scoring average (-4), good for third in the field. Their steady play and ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities proved key in separating themselves late in the event.
"What a great week for the program," said head coach
Adam Buie. "All five players were in the 70's in both rounds and there was only one other team in the field that did that. Our depth is our biggest strength as we have shown 1-9 this season. We reached all of our goals that we set for the day and finally broke 300 which was awesome to see."
Individually, Orraya Jan Tipasathien led the way with a tie for 12th place, carding a 150 (76-74). Tipasathien was especially effective on the par-5s, finishing tied for third in the field with a 4.63 scoring average (-3), and added an eagle to highlight her weekend.
Kyleigh McGowen matched Tipasathien with a 150 (77-73), using a strong second-round 73 to move up the leaderboard and secure a tie for 12th. Her final round 73 was not only a personal best but played a big role in crushing her 36-hole career high by five strokes.
Ella Tannenberger added a top 20 showing, tying for 20th with a 153 (79-74), while
Pygmy Kompoj finished tied for 27
th and also set a personal record at 155 (77-78). Kompoj also stood out on the par-3s, tying for second individually with an even-par average of 3.00 across the two rounds.
Rounding out the lineup,
Emy Cambuzat tied for 32nd at 156 (79-77), contributing six birdies and providing consistent scoring depth for the Yellowjackets. Her final round 77 marked her lowest 18-hole score of her career and her 156 marked her new two-round total by two strokes.
"This finish should really help us in the west region rankings," Buie said. " They will come out later this week, but we are pushing for a top 18 spot to make the regional. With all that being said, I am just excited to see what we do in Phoenix in just over a week!"
THE BUZZ: Orraya Tipasathien earned Intermountain Health Round of the Day with her 76 on day one while
Kyleigh McGowen earned Intermountain Health Round of the Day with her 73 in the final round.
UP NEXT: The Yellowjackets will look to carry their momentum into their next event, traveling to Goodyear, AZ for the Palm Valley Classic on April 3-4.
Southern Colorado Open
Results – March 23, 2026
Walking Stick Golf Course – Pueblo, CO
Team – 1. Colorado State Pueblo, 588 (295-293); T3. MSU Billings, 607 (309-298).
Individuals – T1. Lisa Ekberg, CSU Pueblo 143 (72-71); T1. Margret Nyamukondiwa, Texas A&M Int. 143 (73-70); T12.
Orraya Tipasathien, MSU Billings 150 (76-74); T12.
Kyleigh McGowen, MSU Billings 150 (77-73); T20.
Ella Tannenberger, MSU Billings 153 (79-74); T27.
Pygmy Kompoj, MSU Billings 155 (77-78);
Emy Cambuzat, MSU Billings 156 (79-77).
