In leading the Indian Land Warriors to a ninth-place finish in the state, senior Chase Hunter captured the individual state 1A boys golf championship.

The championship was a first for the school's golf program. In the two-day tournament at the Links at Stoney Point in Greenwood, the Warriors shot a 723. Indian Land opened the tournament with a 368 the first day and a 355 the second day.

Hunter, who has been playing golf since he could hold a club, opened the tournament with a 75, three over par and just three shots back from the leader. His scores were followed by a 95 from Brandon Thomas and 99s from Zach Brigman and Jerrick Spence.

But Hunter's game picked up at just the right time as on the second day, he was one of the only golfers to reduce his score in the second round. Going in to the last two holes, he was one under par. He bogeyed number eight and scored par on the final hole to shoot an even 72. In the second round, he hit all 18 greens in regulation.

"Chase played a nearly immaculate round," said head coach Jonathan Ferguson. "He is extremely mature in his decision making on the course; his ability to make par-saving shots and create birdie chances from trouble spots is stunning.

"The course was very challenging and the greens were extremely fast. Chase created many birdie opportunities, but the ball just wouldn't find the hole. He lipped out at least three birdie putts on the front nine, but he was able to stay focused and get it done."

Hunter said he wasn't surprised he won the state title.

"That is how I normally play," he said. "I'm just happy I won it. I knew I could win it."

Hunter never played the course and saw it only once for a practice round the Sunday before the tournament. He has been on the golf team since he was in the seventh grade.

"It's a good way to end the year," he said.

His scores were followed by Brigman's 89, Thomas' 92 and Spence 102.