Hope College golfer Megan Klintworth maintained the individual lead in the Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association standings on Friday during the opening round of the league championship in Battle Creek.

The senior from Jackson, Michigan (Hanover-Horton HS) carded a 4-over-par 76 at Bedford Valley Country Club — one stroke out of first place.

Klintworth, pictured, carries a 16-stroke lead heading into Saturday's finale. Golfers tee off at 10 a.m. She is bidding to become a three-time MIAA Most Valuable Golfer. She also claimed the award with the top average as a junior and a freshman.

Hope finished second on Friday with a team score of 324 — its best in MIAA play this season.

Freshman Jordyn Rioux of Farmington, Michigan (Livonia Ladywood) also recorded a 76. Freshman Abby Meder of Lansing, Michigan (Catholic Central) shot an 85, while freshman Carley Laird of Traverse City, Michigan (Central) had an 87 and junior Ariana Stewart of Kalamazoo, Michigan (Comstock) a 91.

Saint Mary's also posted its top round of the fall with a 314. The Belles extended their lead over Hope after 90 holes to 23 strokes. The Flying Dutch are 47 strokes ahead of third-place Olivet.

MIAA Standings