4 days ago
Santa Rosa Beach hosts first AJGA tournament
SANTA ROSA BEACH, Fla. (WMBB) – With talk of a potential PGA event coming to the panhandle, Santa Rosa Golf and Beach Club hosted an American Junior Golf Association tournament attracting young golfers from around the world.
The Santa Rosa Golf & Beach Club welcomed the American Junior Golf Association (AJGA) by hosting a three-day open tournament that drew top junior golf talent from around the world.
The AJGA, based in Braselton, Georgia, is recognized for organizing some of the most prestigious junior golf events in the United States. The organization provides a platform for young athletes to earn status, which can lead to participation in more rigorous matches and increased visibility among college recruiters.
Among the standout athletes was South Walton rising sophomore Neely Kight, who tied for second place.
'My short game was pretty good today, except for a few three-putts,' Kight said. 'My drives were strong, but my irons were a little off, so I had to get up and down more than usual. Since the tournament was local, I was able to get in some extra practice rounds, which definitely helped. I love this course, it's beautiful out here.'
As it was the first year the golf club had hosted an AJGA tournament, the groundskeepers paid special attention to detail to ensure the course was in pristine condition with hopes of being selected to host again.
'The biggest thing about this golf course hosting the event is supporting junior golf, not just with our members, but across the sport,' a staff member said. 'We renovated the entire course in 2021, so we wanted players and families to experience it and give feedback.'
The effort was noticed and appreciated by both players and their families.
'The juniors love it out here,' said Mary Caines the tournament director. 'I've received so many compliments from parents and players, they say it's one of their favorite courses. The atmosphere is really special.'
Krishny Elwin, a rising junior from Puerto Rico who resides in Orlando, claimed first place in the girls division and credited the course for complementing her style of play.
'Playing on this course felt like it was built for me,' Elwin said. 'It's definitely challenging, if you don't hit it straight, you're in trouble. But it was in perfect condition, and I played really well.'
The event was viewed as a major success and is expected to bolster Santa Rosa Beach's position as a premier venue for future junior golf competitions.
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