CHAUTAUQAU, N.

Friday, June 08, 2001

CHAUTAUQAU, N.Y. – As a member of the Albert Lea High School boys’ golf team, Justin Bennett distinguished himself with both his talent and longevity at the varsity level.

Now, he’s making a strong bid for All-American status.

Competing for Riverland Community College, Bennett was in 22nd place after 54 of 72 holes in the National Junior College Athletic Association Division III national golf tournament in Chautauqau, N.Y.

&uot;Justin is in good shape,&uot; said coach Dave Lillemon Thursday night. &uot;The top 18 make All-American, and we’re hoping he has a realistic shot at that. Again, just very, very steady play by Justin. He’s looking forward to the final round.&uot;

Bennett opened with a 78 on Tuesday, placing him among the top 25 out of more than 100 golfers.

A 74 on Wednesday put Bennett in a tie for 14th place, five strokes off the lead.

Bennett shot 78 on Thursday, leaving him 13 strokes out of first and all alone in 22nd place.

Bennett was scheduled to tee off for his final 18 holes at 9:30 this morning. Chautauqau Golf Course is located about 80 miles south of Buffalo, N.Y.