CFNN Reporter Addie Wellons and Camryn Rogers

The Cape Fear High School golf team is off to a solid start in the 2026 Tri-County Conference season, showing steady improvement through their first two matches. 

As of March 9, Cape Fear is in third place in the conference standings with a total score of 676 and an 18-hole average of 338.0. The team trails longtime rival Terry Sanford, who currently holds first place, while Gray’s Creek remains strong in second place.

Cape Fear opened the season on March 2nd with a team score of 334. They followed that performance with a 342 on March 9th. While the second match score was slightly higher, the team remained consistent and competitive against some of the top schools in the conference. 

Terry Sanford leads the conference with a total of 579 strokes, followed by Gray’s Creek at 669. Cape Fear is close behind and looking to close the gap as the season continues. 

The team’s early performance shows promise, especially with several matches still left to play. With continuous practice and support, Cape Fear has a strong chance to move up in the standings and compete for the top spot.

As this season continues, the Colts will look to build on their scores and momentum heading into the later matches. If they can stay consistent, Cape Fear will stay a serious competitor in the Tri-County conference 

“Focusing on our losses and flaws strengthens our game and our mindset as a team,” said Ashton Leonard, sophomore on the Golf team. 

Overall, it has been a strong start for the Cape Fear golf team in the 2026 season.

The golfers showed extreme precision last Monday, March 9th, at Baywood Gold Course.

Parker Hayes is leading Cape Fear in individual standings with 162 strokes. Following Parker is Ashton Leonard with 163, Layton Lewis with 173, Bryson Barlow with 178, Raylan D’amico with 203, and Owen Driggers with 208.

As this season goes on, the team will continue working on improving their scores. With strong individual performances and great teamwork, Cape Fear has much potential to climb higher in the standings. With the Colts so determined and consistent, they could make a strong push for the top by the end of the season.