This week's peak performer: Andrew Cornella, St Mary's

A year after finishing runner-up in Class 3A, Andrew Cornella feels he’s prepared to make a run at the title. The St. Mary’s junior won the 3A Southern Regional last week at Hollydot Golf Course and followed that with a 68 to finish second at a junior event at King’s Deer.

“Having a round like that is always a confidence-booster,” Cornella said. “I’m really working a lot on putting, so I’m hoping to be able to put it all together next week.”

Cornella plans to build on last year’s performance at state.

“I missed seven putts on the back nine and lost by two, which was just frustrating,” he said. “But I have a good feeling about this year.”

QUICK HITS
What age did you start playing golf? 6

Most frequently played song on your iPod?
“Free Falling” by John Mayer.

Your favorite food?
Chipotle

Your pet peeve?
We’re Italian, so when we have food, we have lots. My mom always asks me if I want more, and I always say no. She always gives me more anyway, and it drives me crazy.

Do you have any superstitions?
I always mark my ball with a Wyoming quarter with the head facing down. My sister goes to Wyoming, and I started doing it just as a way of remembering her. One time when I didn’t do it during regionals, I got fined two strokes for accidentally moving my ball improperly.

Three other golfers in your dream foursome?
My dad, Ben Hogan and Bobby Jones.