RICHMOND, Calif. – The Chico State women's golf team opened play at the Big Freeze Invitational at Richmond Golf Club, sitting in ninth place after the first round with a team score of 329. The Wildcats competed in sunny conditions with firm greens, while the wind held off following a windy practice round the day before.

Chico State found success on the par 5s, ranking third in the field at 3-over par.

Senior Brooke Pelletier led the Wildcats with a 5-over par 77 and sits tied for 14th after the opening round. Pelletier finished among the top 15 in both par-3 and par-4 scoring and relied heavily on her short game throughout the day. Despite hitting just six greens in regulation, she converted consistently around the greens and needed only 29 putts. Pelletier said her putting and short game were key factors in keeping her round steady.

Freshman Sienna Garcia posted an 82 (+10) and is tied for 32nd. Garcia finished eighth in the field in par 5 scoring by playing them at 1-under par.

Freshman Gabriella Fanucchi carded an 84 (+12) to sit tied for 39th. Fanucchi's driver was a strength throughout the round, and she looks to improve her putting heading into the final round.

Junior Ariana Blagrove turned in an 86 (+14), while sophomore Hollyn Drennen recorded an 88 (+16), to round out the Wildcats' lineup.

Chico State will return to action tomorrow morning for the final round, with a shotgun start scheduled for 8 a.m.