Bryan Cole / Collegian File Photo
In a matter of two weeks, Fresno State golfer Bhavik Patel went from just another athlete on the golf team to a Bulldog stand out.
Patel was named Western Athletic Conference Golfer of the Week in consecutive weeks, from Feb. 1 through Feb. 14. He has won the award three times in his two-year career.
During the two-week span, Patel tied for second place at the Ping Arizona Intercollegiate, which took place on Feb. 1-2, shooting 10-under par (69-64-69””203). A week later, he took home medalist honors at the University of San Diego Invitational shooting 8-under par (69-70-69””208).
The first-place finish marked Patel’s inaugural collegiate tournament victory. He did so as the only player in the tournament to shoot under par in each of the three rounds.
Patel also claimed another WAC honor in October, when he was named WAC Player of the Month. Through the first two tournaments of the fall season, Patel averaged a 69 on course, which ranked third in the nation at the time.
Patel will participate in the USC Invitational, a tournament he placed in the top-20 last season. Patel and the ‘Dogs will play in five more tournaments before the WAC Championships begin on May 3.
Q & A
When did you first pick up a golf club?
When I was six years old. When my dad first took me out.
Do you remember what you shot on your first 18-hole round?
No, people ask me all the time. I have no idea really.
When you’re not golfing, what can you be found doing?
I’m usually just hanging out with friends and playing Call of Duty.
What is your favorite part of being a Fresno State student-athlete?
Just being able to represent the school in something. They obviously took time to recruit me to help the team and help the program. It’s an honor to be a student athlete and do something I love doing as well.
What has been the most memorable moment of your career?
Playing in the U.S. Amateur during the summer, the first week of school. I made it to the semi-finals, but lost. Also, I won my first tournament as a collegiate golfer two weeks ago. It’s not easy to win a tournament now because all these golfers are as good or even better than me.
Do you feel you are a leader on the golf team, even though it is only your second year?
Yes and no. There are a lot of responsibilities for me. I just have to make sure I do my part to help the team. I just try to play my best and be successful. I know I’m number one, but every player on the team has to do his own role.
Do you have a favorite course to play on?
No, not really. All these courses in Fresno are good. There is no specific favorite.