TUNICA RESORTS, Miss. - Union University freshman golfer Aubrey Payne made the most of her first round in the 2025 Gulf South Conference Championship, setting the record for lowest score in the first round GSC Women's Golf Championship history. Payne's 68 also boosted Union to a lead in the championship after the first round. 

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Payne's 68 and 4-under par is the best score of a first round in the championship and is tied for the second lowest round in overall women's golf championship history (67 is the record set back in 2018). The score of 68 how now been done three times in GSC WG Championship history. The previous first-round low score was a pair of 69s from 2024 and 2023. 

Payne said, "Setting this record means so much to me because it reflects the hard work I've put in to support my team and contribute to our success. One thing that helped me stay positive and focused today was taking a moment between shots to say a quick prayer. As I walked from the green to the next tee, I made a point to thank the Lord for something small each time. I'm incredibly grateful for the chance to play this game and be in this position. God has been so good to me, and I don't take this opportunity for granted."

Union maintained a lead for most of the first round with the help of a combined 14 birdies to finish 17-over par. Payne leads the event with her 4-under par score and is the only golfer in the field below par. Olivia Carroll is in sixth at 4-over. Brooklyn Verdugo is 17th at 8-over, while Abigail Fernandez is 23rd (9-over) and Camille Burnette is 25th (10-over)

Union head coach Andy Rushing said of Payne's day and his team lead, "Aubrey had a day that she will never forget. Having the first-round lead is great. I'm looking forward to seeing who steps up tomorrow and Saturday!"

Alia Scota of West Florida is second at even par. West Florida (#24 nationally) and Lee (#11 nationally) are right on Union's heels at 18-under par. 

The 3-round event is being played at the Tunica National Golf and Tennis Club, featuring eight teams and 40 golfers. The second round is set for Friday. Union will tee off at 10 a.m. with Camille Burnette going first followed by the next four Union golfers every 10 minutes. Union will tee off on hole one. 

-UNION-