NORMAL, Ill. — Behind strong performances from its top three starters, the Carleton College women's golf team finished the opening round of the Kathy Niepagen Spring Fling in second place on Saturday at Ironwood Golf Course to open the spring season.

The Knights posted a team score of 304 (+16) at the Ironwood Golf Course, trailing only Washington University-St. Louis in the 21-team field.  Carleton will enter Sunday's final round eight shots behind the Bears. 

Carter Sichol led the way for Carleton, carding a one-over-par 73 to end the day in sixth place individually. She put up three birdies in her first round of the spring season and was closely followed by teammates Sarah Zheng and Anna Lee, who both finished in a tie for seventh after shooting rounds of 2-over-par 74. Zheng also posted three birdies, while Lee recorded two circles on her scorecard.

Rounding out the scoring for the Knights' starting lineup were Cynthia Lu, who carded an 83 (T-60), and Mindy Zhai, who finished with an 84 (T-70).
Two Knights also competed as individuals. Kate Yi shot a 6-over-par 78 to finish the day tied for 21st, while Natalie Tatar carded an 85 (T-79).

The tournament concludes Sunday at the 5,823-yard, par-72 course.

Team Standings (Top 10)
1. WashU - 296
2. Carleton - 304
3. UW-Stout - 307
T4. Aurora - 309
T4. Illinois Wesleyan - 309
6. Grinnell - 311
7. St. Mary's - 312
8. Macalester - 313
9. Trine - 317
10. North Central – 320
 
Carleton Individual Results
6. Carter Sichol -- 73 (+1)
T7. Sarah Zheng -- 74 (+2)
T7. Anna Lee -- 74 (+2)
21. Kate Yi (IND) -- 78 (+6)
T60. Cynthia Lu -- 83 (+11)
T70. Mindy Zhai -- 84 (+12)
T79. Natalie Tatar (IND) -- 85 (+13)