SPRINGVALE, Utah – One of Claire Choi's best days as a collegian highlighted the performance of the Santa Clara women's golf at the season-opening Hobble Creek Fall Classic.

Choi carded a 1-over-par 143 (71-72) and sits in a tie for fourth place, just three shots behind leader Jocelyn Chee of California Baptist.

Northern Arizona leads the 17-team field after firing an 11-over 579 (287-292) on the par-71, 6,135-yard Hobble Creek Course. Utah Valley, the host institution, is second at 17-over 585. The Broncos are 10th at 32-over 598 (299-299).

"Our ball striking was pretty good today but we struggled on the greens," head coach Krystal Kelly said. "It's definitely something we will be focusing on for the season. I'm confident we will play well tomorrow and make up some ground."

Sarah Busey is tied for 29th after posting a 7-over 149 (75-74) and Marni Murez is tied for 52nd at 11-over 153 (75-78) on the

Choi's eight birdies are tied for first in the 100-player field. Her opening-round 71 was one shot off her collegiate best set in the opening round of last year's Wyoming Cowgirl Classic. Choi's best tournament finish as a freshman last season was fifth at The Gold Rush.

"Claire was very steady all day and she's within a few shots of the lead," Kelly said.

Isabella Seeburger and Duong Tran rounded out the Santa Clara squad. Seeburger is tied for 70th at 14-over 156 (78-78) and Tran tied for 76th with a total of 158 (81-77).

Maybe the best hole of the day came courtesy of Seeburger who had an eagle on the par-5, 470-yard 13th.

"That was awesome to watch," Kelly said.

Tuesday's final round will feature a shotgun start, beginning at 8:30 a.m. MT.

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