Golf: Wicker shines at college combine

Douglas High golf standout Thomas Wicker has become accustomed to clutch performances during his still-young golf career.

The senior-to-be, however, may have come up with his best performance at the best possible time this week.

Wicker sunk the second hole-in-one of his career on his way to winning the 18-hole tournament at the 2009 Under Armour College West Combine at East Valley Golf Club in Beaumont, Calif.

Wicker shot a two-under par 34-36-70 and parred the first hole of a sudden-death playoff with Xabier Basanez of Costa Rica to take first place.

Five players, including Manogue senior-to-be Jordan Anderson, shot one-under 71s to share third place.

In total, 70 athletes were on hand for the two-day combine which hosted college coaches from across the country to evaulate talent. Eight states as well as Canada, Costa Rica, New Zealand and Finland were represented.

Wicker's hole-in-one came on the 186-yard second hole with his 6-iron. It was his first ace since hitting the 18th hole at Carson Valley Golf Course when he was 9 years old. The shot this week turned out to be the difference between first place and a three-way tie for seventh.

Wicker hit 17 of 18 greens as he matched three birdies with three bogeys during his round on Tuesday.

His busy summer schedule continues next week as he'll be one of four junior golfers representing Nevada at the Junior Americas Cup Team Matches in Pasedena, Calif.