June 8, 2025

Barton College Freshman Wins Golfer of the Month

News Summary

Dermot McElhennon, a freshman golfer at Barton College, received the title of Conference Carolinas Men’s Golfer of the Month for March. With an impressive score of 12-under par over five rounds, McElhennon showcased his skills by tying for second place in a prestigious invitational and winning a collegiate tournament. His achievements highlight his growing potential in the golf arena and strengthen the reputation of Barton College’s golf program.

Wilson, NC – Dermot McElhennon, a freshman golfer at Barton College, has been awarded the title of Conference Carolinas Men’s Golfer of the Month for March. This recognition highlights his impressive performance throughout the month, during which he finished with a remarkable score of 12-under par over five rounds.

McElhennon, a graduate of New Bern High School, demonstrated his exceptional golfing skills by tying for second place at the prestigious Golfweek NCAA Division II Spring Invitational held in Orlando, Florida. Additionally, he showcased his prowess by winning the Pizza Inn-Barton Intercollegiate at Wilson Country Club, where he set a new competitive course record with a stunning score of 8-under 64. This score also marks a new record for Barton College.

Consistency has been a hallmark of McElhennon’s game, as he recorded his sixth consecutive round at par or better with a score of 71 in the first round of the Lander University Bearcat Invitational, which took place in Greenwood, South Carolina. Over the month of March, his impressive play resulted in an average score of 70.29.

This accolade for McElhennon adds to a streak of recognition for the Barton College golf program, with the Bulldogs having secured three consecutive Golfer of the Month honors. Notably, sophomore Daniel Claytor earned both awards during the previous fall season, showcasing the strength of Barton’s golf team.

Furthermore, McElhennon recently competed in the U.S. Golf Association Amateur Championship Sectional Qualifier at Cutter Creek Golf Club. In the first round of this tournament, he recorded an impressive score of 2-under 70, placing him just three shots off the lead. The current leader, Bruce Woodall, finished the first round with a score of 5-under 67, while Conner Sock and Rob Simmons closely followed with scores of 4-under 68.

At this stage of the qualifier, McElhennon finds himself in a strong position, being just two strokes behind the tie for second place. He is set to continue his second round from the No. 1 tee at 9:12 a.m. The other Barton College athletes participating include rising senior Michael Marshburn, who will start at No. 1 at 8:36 a.m., and Claytor, who begins from No. 10 at 8:00 a.m. Marshburn is currently tied for 12th with an even-par score of 72, while Claytor is part of a crowded leaderboard sitting at 25th place with a 4-over 76.

McElhennon’s recent achievements are indicative of his growing skill and potential in the golf arena, making him a notable athlete to watch as he continues his collegiate career. His accomplishments not only contribute positively to his personal development but also enhance the reputation of the Barton College men’s golf program.