MIRAMAR BEACH, Fla. — Carter and Peyton Sichol were looking forward to seeing each other for the first time since they left home for their junior seasons at Carleton College and Hamilton College.
The twins, juniors at their respective schools, are like plenty of other twins in the world. They grew up doing everything together, including golf. When it came time to go to college, Carter decided to go to Carleton in Minnesota. Peyton, however, chose Hamilton in New York.
When the schedule came out this year, there was a similar tournament on the schedule for only the second time in their college careers: the Golfweek October Classic at Sandestin’s Links Course. Then when they checked their pairings for the first round, they were in for another surprise.
They were paired together for the first time in a competitive round.
“I was super excited,” Carter said.
Added Peyton: “It’s Hamilton’s first time here. I was just excited to hang out with Carter. But this, yeah, it was really fun.”
The sisters were stellar in the opening round. Carter shot an even-par 72 while Peyton signed for a 1-over 73. Carter is T-9 after the opening round, and Peyton is T-13.
Golfweek October Classic: Scores
While there was plenty of competition between the two, it was also a round they’ll never forget.
“During the summer, we play together almost every day,” Carter said. “I felt the most relaxed I’ve ever felt in a tournament round.”
“It’s probably the most fun tournament round I’ve had forever,” Peyton responded.
Early on, their playing partners knew something was up.
By about the third hole Sunday, as Carter and Peyton were chatting it up like the two best friends they are, one of them asked whether they were old friends or friends from before because of how well they seemed to know each other.
“We’re actually twins,” they responded.
It was also a special day for Carter and Peyton’s parents, Adam and Lowey, both Hamilton graduates who were there for all 18 holes to support the twins, and they did so in a unique way.
Mom and dad each wore mismatched clothing, wearing a hat from one school and a shirt from the other.
“It’s one of my favorite tournament days ever,” Peyton said.
Even if they’re never paired together again, the Sichols will always have Sunday.
“There were a couple of short putts that we almost missed that we were laughing at each other,” Carter said. “But we did make them.”
“Pretty good vibes all day,” Peyton said.