All of Nansemond River Golf Club’s sand traps, water hazards, long rough and fast greens had nothing on the August heat and humidity on Monday as four Southeastern District schools, including King’s Fork and Lakeland, opened their golf seasons.

King’s Fork’s match with Great Bridge, traditionally one of the strongest golf teams in the Southeastern District, was cut short by the heat after nine holes. Great Bridge prevailed by a healthy margin, 159-211.

Senior Andrew Cospelich led KF with a two-over par 38 in his nine holes. Great Bridge’s Erik Ruse was the medalist with a 36.

Lakeland’s match with Grassfield, which teed off ahead of King’s Fork vs. Great Bridge on Monday morning, was able to go the distance in the sweltering, cloudless day. The Cavaliers could field only three golfers. Four golfers are required for a team to record a team score.

Even though Grassfield had the team victory by forfeit no matter what, the Cavaliers and Grizzlies worked their way around the course. Grassfield’s Andrew Farrell was the medalist with a two-under par round of 70. Farrell carded 33 on the front nine at Nansemond River and was as low as four-under par through 14 holes before even he struggled some down the stretch.

Ryan Sigler, the lone returning player from last season’s Cavalier team, led Lakeland with a 93. Stephen Blanchard shot 105, and Chris Holland shot 127.

Lakeland head coach Brandon Frye encouraged his golfers at every chance, telling his charges he saw their effort and focus, despite the heat. In the case of Holland, it was his first competitive round on a day with the heat index above 100.

Nansemond River High must brave the same conditions on Tuesday and open its season against Deep Creek at Nansemond River Golf Club starting at 10:30 a.m.