BY BRITTNI MCCOY
MOUNTAIN CITIZEN

INEZ — Under the direction of head coach Boo Newsome, the Martin County High School golf team has opened its season with a trio of competitive tournament appearances.

The Cardinals teed off the 2025 season July 21 at the Johnson Central Invitational held at Stone Crest Golf Course in Prestonsburg. Freshmen Blake Lemaster and Ryder Duncan led the team, shooting 88 and 90, respectively. They both finished in the top 60 of a 125-player field.

Dylan Hale, Avery Duncan, Gaven Grace and Gunner Broaddus also competed in the event.

On July 22, Martin County traveled to Lexington to play in the Blue Bird Invitational at the University of Kentucky’s Big Blue Course. The Cards played at the home of UK’s men’s and women’s golf programs.

Ryder Duncan improved on his previous round, carding an 87. Lemaster finished just one stroke behind with an 88. Hale, Grace and senior Avery Duncan rounded out the team’s scorecard.

The Cardinals capped their week at the East Carter Invitational on July 25 at Hidden Cove Golf Course. Ryder Duncan again led the team with an 86. Grace and Lemaster each posted 91s. Duncan shot 100 and Hale finished with 110.

Martin County’s roster features a blend of youth and experience: Eighth grader Gunner Broaddus, freshmen Duncan and Lemaster, sophomore Hale, junior Grace and senior Avery Duncan.