Some of the Sac-Joaquin Section’s top boys golf programs converged on the par-72 Del Rio Golf and Country Club in Modesto for Central Catholic’s Invitational Preview on Monday.

Ripon, the defending SJS Division V champion, placed eighth out of the 12 teams, carding a 458.

“Not the best showing we’ve ever had, but where we’re at right now it wasn’t as bad as I thought it could be,” Ripon coach Chris Musseman said. “We had three new faces on the varsity team today who haven’t seen much action, but we’re missing one guy who just got done with basketball.”

The Indians are rebuilding the back end of their lineup but remain strong at the top. Returning standout Nick Sharp paced Ripon with an 81 and Nathan Suender added an 88. Robbie Figeroid contributed a 93, while Anthony Matthews and Miller each turned in a 98. 

Players were challenged Monday having to tee off from the tips, and the rain left them with less-than-ideal conditions. There were still some impressive scores, as Jahaan Nargussi of co-runner-up Del Oro earned low medalist with a 74. Lodi’s Brad Reeves finished a stroke back for second.

Tournament host Central Catholic won with a 405. Del Oro and Vacaville tied for second with 417s.

It was a good warm-up round for Ripon, which begins its defense of the Trans-Valley League title today against Escalon at Spring Creek Golf & Country Club.

“They’re supposed to win league,” Musseman said of Escalon, “so we’ll find out right away where we’re at.”