IMG Academy Junior World Golf Championship Results
A month before the IMG Academy Junior World Golf Championships, Yuka Nishina from Japan secured a qualifying spot in Hawaii for the U.S. Girls Junior Amateur. Her performance in Hawaii was just the beginning. Nishina clinched the girls 13-14 Junior World title at the Country Club of Rancho Bernardo, finishing with a 9-under-par 210 over three rounds. Despite a challenging start on the final day, she managed to maintain her lead with an even-par 71, following rounds of 70 and 69.
Nishina expressed her excitement through a translator, saying, “Compared to the first and second days, my shots weren’t that great, but my par putts went in, so I’m really happy about that.” She is now preparing for the U.S. Junior Am in Tarzana. Reflecting on her experience, she noted, “It’s busy, but being able to play abroad is a good experience. I’m enjoying it, and I hope it ties into my future career.”
Other standout performances included Kwanachanok Boonchan from Thailand, who finished third with a score of 213, and Ping-Hua Hsieh from Chinese Taipei, who took second place with a score of 211. Interestingly, nine of the last ten winners in this age group have been from Asia, with two of the last three from Japan.
The Locals
Carmel Valley’s Sydney Kroc, competing in the 13-14 division, tied for 38th place with a score of 228. This marked her seventh appearance in the tournament. Kroc shared, “It’s a goal to come here every year. It’s just the competition since people are flying all over the world to be here.” She highlighted the growth in her game, particularly in driving distance and mental composure.
Kroc’s fellow Carmel Valley resident, Lillian Phee, made her second Junior World appearance, tying for 17th place with a score of 221. Phee’s family recently joined the Country Club of Rancho Bernardo, which has helped improve her game, especially her approach shots.
In the boys 11-12 bracket at La Valle, Temecula’s Alan Yoda secured third place with a score of 201, while Danish Verma from India took first place with a score of 199. Chula Vista’s Connor Szczechowicz tied for 10th place in the boys 13-14 division with a score of 216.
Results at Torrey Pines
Fog played a significant role in the 15-18 divisions at Torrey Pines, causing delays and schedule changes. Despite this, San Diego’s Ethan Elleraas climbed to second place in the boys’ division with a score of 214. On the girls’ side, Hong Kong’s Ariana Lau won the title with a score of 20, while Japan’s Uno Neda and Meg Tilma from Wichita, Kansas, took second and third place, respectively.
Reflecting on her journey, Kroc emphasized the importance of staying calm and focused, saying, “Before each shot now, I take a breath and calm my nerves. Then I try to put my best swing on it.” This mindset has helped her and many others navigate the challenges and triumphs of competitive golf.
Learn more about the IMG Academy Junior World Golf Championships here.
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