Gritton vows for another state run

Arpan Dixit
Herald Staff
sports@harrodsburgherald.com      

Although Mercer County junior Reed Gritton did not finish where he would have liked at the boys golf state tournament at Bowling Green Country Club on Friday, Oct. 5, he enjoyed the opportunity and hopes to use it as a learning experience to get back next season.

“I didn’t play well at all, but I loved the atmosphere and had a good time while I was down there,” he said. “I hope to be back down there for my senior year.”

Gritton is the ultimate competitor and hates to lose. He missed the cut, shooting 17 over for an 89 on the first day of competition.

After shooting a 73 at region last week in Danville, Gritton knows he is capable of performing like that each time out, but the game of a golf can be frustrating at the worst times.

“My game was nowhere near my usual. That is just the way it is with the game of golf,” said Gritton. “Some days you have it, and some days you don’t. Although I had a bad day, I have a lot to learn and to change about my mental game.”

Gritton’s coach, Jay Anderson, gave his thoughts on the tournament.

“Overall it was a great experience. One a majority of golfers never get to experiences so to be there is a once in a lifetime accomplishment that I know he and I definitely did not take for granted,” said Anderson. “Despite not making the cut, we both made sure not to lose sight of the experience and the accomplishment. In 16 years of coaching, I have been fortunate enough to go twice. I am extremely grateful and proud of Reed for earning this opportunity for us both. It’s something I will never forget and something we will always be able to share. It’s truly special to me.”

Anderson said he could have done better helping Gritton handle situations he found himself in.

“In hindsight, we made a decision or two we should not have, but at that moment it seemed like the right play. Golf never fails to present learning lessons and unfortunately we got a few more lessons than we wanted that day.”

Anderson is very confident that Gritton can make another run his senior season and will be along for the ride.

As for Gritton, he said he is going to work tirelessly to get back to state and looks forward to the challenge.