Little Rock took the lead on Apr. 19 in the first round of the 2026 Ohio Valley Conference Women’s Golf Championship, posting a team score of 311 (+23) at Dalton Golf and Country Club.
The opening round is significant as Little Rock is defending its title and started strong by placing several golfers near the top of the leaderboard. The team demonstrated depth with consistent performances throughout its lineup.
Head coach Jenna Birch said, “I’m really proud of how we competed today. This course demanded patience, especially with the conditions early, and I thought we stayed disciplined and gave ourselves opportunities throughout the round.” Eleonore Aernouts and Cloe Poizac each shot a 76 (+4), tying for first place after 18 holes. Both recorded identical scores on both nines to lead all competitors.
Aernouts said, “I felt like I stayed really patient out there today. The conditions were a little tricky early, but I just tried to play smart, hit fairways and greens, and not force anything. It’s nice to be in this position, but the focus is on staying consistent and helping the team keep the lead.” Aernouts has been recognized as OVC Golfer of the Month for March and currently leads in stroke average within conference play.
Birch also commented on her players’ approach: “I thought Eleonore and Cloe did a great job staying patient and trusting their game plans. They didn’t try to do too much and let the round come to them.” Fehild Graesel contributed with a score of 78 (+6), tied for fourth place overall. Iara Martin finished with an 81 (+9), tied for eleventh, while Elvira Flodstrom posted an 84 (+12), tied for seventeenth.
“I think the biggest thing was our consistency from top to bottom,” Birch said. “In this format, it takes everyone, and we had contributions across the lineup to put ourselves in a strong position.” The second round will take place Monday morning as Little Rock aims to extend its advantage.
