LOPATCONG, N.J. -- Walker Kirk of Lancaster claimed the Boys' 14-and-under Division championship at the International Junior Golf Tour event at Architects Golf Club on April 28-29 by a margin of five strokes.
But it wasn't easy.
Frigid first round weather, strong winds, and undulated greens tested the talent of Kirk and some of the other top junior golfers in the country.
Kirk opened the tournament with a solid round of 4-over par 75 and was in second place. “After opening the entire tournament with a triple bogey, I just remained calm and fought back,” said Kirk in a statement.
Posting an even-par 71 in the final round ending in a tournament total of 4-over 146 did just that for Kirk. He was also consistent; making 27 pars throughout the weekend.
Marc Oliveri of Lancaster finished tied for 26th in the Boys' 15-19 Division at 15-over-par. York's Josh Rinehart was 16-over-par and tied for 31st.
The IJGT operates primarily throughout the academic year and hosts approximately 60 tournaments annually showcasing junior golfers of all skill levels from ages 9-19.
Some information used in this story was provided by Buffalo Communications.