GOODYEAR, Ariz. - Northwest Nazarene women's golf took to the links just a few days after finishing their home invitational on Tuesday, taking on a very strong field of 28 teams at the RJGA Palm Valley Classic. 

After the first round of action, the Nighthawks are 21st of 28 teams with a score of 316. "We got off to a slow start today, but came back a little better on the back nine," said head coach Craig Stensgaard."

All five GNAC programs are at the event, and among the conference teams NNU only trails Western Washington, who is tied for 16th. The Nighthawks are also just two strokes back of 18th, with plenty of opportunity to move up tomorrow.

Madison Gridley had a fantastic opening round, firing an even-par and collegiate-low 72 to tie for seventh overall. The sophomore is tied for second among the entire field with 15 pars through the first 18 holes.

"Madi had a terrific round and played really solid all day," added Stensgaard.

Hannah Holloway is next for NNU, tying for 74th with a 79. Christine Cho (80) and Brianna Shervik (85) round out the scorers for the Nighthawks, followed by Paige Vancil at 87.

The second and final round will take place tomorrow.