As a sophomore, Lorali Barnes earned All-State on a Parkers Chapel team that finished second in the 2A State Girls Golf Tournament. She didn’t take any steps backward as a junior, winning medalist honors last week in the 2A 6 District Golf Tournament.
“Lorali Barnes has had a great year,” said Parkers Chapel coach Hillary Frisby. “Lorali can do anything she sets her mind to. She has a great work ethic and puts 100 percent effort into everything she does. She has been very consistent this season and has medaled in most of the matches she has played in. I expect a strong finish for Lorali at state.”
The 2A State Tournament will be held Tuesday at Glenwood Country Club.
Barnes, the lone returner from last season’s squad, said her game has risen in the past year.
“Compared to last golf season, I gained a lot of confidence with my golf swing and ability. It is nowhere near perfect but the improvement since last season is noticeable,” she said.
“Having the opportunity to compete in the state tournament last year allowed me to feel more confident and prepared to compete in the state tournament this year.”
Barnes has played in two 18-hole tournaments this season. She shot 92 in the season-opening Simmons Bank Invitational at the Lions Club and 98 last week at a treacherous Diamondhead course in Hot Springs. Her 98 won medalist by 13 strokes.
“I really enjoy playing 18-hole tournaments because my dad has always told me, ‘you’ve got a lot of golf left.’ When playing 18 holes, there is lots of golf left to play to make up my score when I have a bad hole,” said Barnes, who believes the Lady Trojans are ready for the challenge.
“With each tournament I feel prepared because our golf team has after school practices and my dad always comes along to the range to help improve my game.”