The CGA State Junior Championship showcased exceptional young talent across various age groups in a two-day individual stroke play tournament. Competitors in the 11U and 13U divisions took on the 18-hole course at CommonGround Golf Course, while the 9U players demonstrated their skills on the par 3 course. The event featured an array of impressive performances, highlighting the bright future of golf through a display of talent and sportsmanship. Here’s a closer look at the standout players and memorable moments from this exciting tournament.
Championship Results- 13U, 11U
9u Girls
Champion: Evelyn Assell
Evelyn Assell will now have her name on the 9U championship trophy alongside her sister. She started both days strong with a par on the first hole. On the first day, she tied with her opponent and was still tied going into the seventh hole on day two. Evelyn played the last three holes brilliantly, scoring a birdie on hole 7 and finishing with a two-day total of 78. Today, she achieved a career best with a 37.
Runner-up: Lily Sanchez (85)
9u Boys
Champion: Henry Moreno
Henry Moreno showcased his skills and determination at the CGA State Junior Championship. Known for his tradition of wearing orange on the final day, Henry has been a familiar face in junior tournaments. This year, he had a strong finish, especially on the last few holes of Day 2, ending with a score of 2-over. His final round was impressive, finishing with par, par, birdie, and par, for a total two day score of 60. Henry’s dad caddied for him on Day 1, while his mom took over the caddie duties on Day 2, adding a special family touch to his performance.
Runner-up: Isaiah Knudse (63)
11u Girls
11U Girls Champion: Adelyn Kim
Adelyn Kim secured the 11U Girls Championship title with impressive consistency, carding two rounds of 91 for a two-day total of 182. She maintained her lead throughout and delivered steady performances on both days.
Runner-up: Allison Liu (189)
11u Boys
Champion: Koehn Kuenzler
Koehn Kuenzler showcased his skills in a thrilling performance. One of the highlights of his round was a spectacular greenside bunker shot on the 9th hole that rolled out to 12 feet, followed by sinking the putt. Reflecting on his performance, Kuenzler said, “I left some opportunities out on the course on day 1.” However, he bounced back with an impressive front nine on day 2, carding three birdies and no bogeys. His rounds of 75 and 67 led to a total score of 142, securing his victory.
Runner-up: Eli Dawson (143)
13u Girls
Champion: Peyton Landon
Peyton Landon clinched the 13U Girls Championship title with an impressive performance, finishing four over par over two days (76, 70). Highlighting her second day was an eagle on hole 5, contributing to her 20-stroke lead over the field.
Runner-up: Addison Moreno (166)
13u boys
Champion: Braylon Ball
Braylon Ball, a consistent young talent from Fort Collins, claimed the title in the 13U Boys division with impressive rounds of 71 and 72, totaling 143.
Runner-up: Jeffrey Chen (145)
Hole-in-one
Hudson Vanderwal made an unforgettable mark on the tournament by a spectacular hole-in-one on hole 14! What a way to kick off the competition!
