Golf may not be the most physically demanding sport offered at local high schools, but its postseason can offer athletes some particularly unique and formidable challenges.

From mid-August through the end of September, prep golfers were treated to weather that was usually favorable and often spectacular. Shorts and short sleeves were common on the local links; rain was rare, and winds were generally tame by Illinois standards.

But the IHSA postseason doesn't begin until October, and as is often the case, golfers have had face significantly conditions than they've been accustomed to as they try to advance to state. Conditions were generally favorable when the area's boys golfers teed off in the regional round on Oct. 2. By the following day, when the girls postseason opened, temperatures were considerably cooler, and sporadic rain swept through the region.