By Barbara Palmgren
For four days in April, homeowners in Lake Lorraine and Shalimar Pointe watched from their patios as polite, well-dressed and determined young golfers took tee shots, approached greens and sank putts. The 36-hole stroke play tournament officially took place April 11–12, 2026, with a Friday qualifier and Thursday practice round giving these future golf professionals daily opportunities to chase low scores.
The American Junior Golf Association, headquartered in Braselton, Georgia, has produced notable alumni including Phil Mickelson, Scottie Scheffler, Jordan Spieth and Tiger Woods.
Tournament Director Sophia Thomas, alongside a staff of eight interns and one assistant, coordinated the event with a steady smile and remarkable efficiency. Regional Director Matt Emmi, who oversees Florida operations, also attended and shared insight into the AJGA’s point system and awards structure. Inspired by his father, a head golf professional, Emmi’s enthusiasm for mentoring young players reflects a bright future for the game.
In 2025, Destin-Fort Walton Beach helped bring this prestigious tournament to the Gulf Coast. This year, even without that sponsorship, the AJGA chose to return to Shalimar Pointe — not only for its challenging course, but for the club’s exceptional hospitality.
Members welcomed staff and players like family, opening their homes to house 10 staff members and volunteering throughout the event. From registration and hydration stations to spotting shots across the course, their support was instrumental.
Course manager John Jenkins, along with staff, earned high marks for maintaining excellent course conditions and providing outstanding clubhouse service. The members lounge served as tournament headquarters, ensuring smooth operations. The club’s motto, “Where Everyone is Treated Like a Champion,” proved true throughout the event.
Of the 78 golfers, ages 12–19, most had already qualified, while Friday’s round added six boys (scores 73–76) and three girls (scores 71–73). Yardage played at 6,620 for boys and 5,655 for girls.
The field represented 22 states, including 34 players from Florida, along with competitors from three countries outside the United States.
Awards were presented April 12 to the top finishers:
Girls Division:
First place: Gabrielle Kim, Irvine, California (151)
Second place: Qiaoyi Lyu, Celebration, Florida (153)
Third place: Abagail Murphy, Kissimmee, Florida (155)
Boys Division:
First place: Austin Blackburn, Dunwoody, Georgia (145)
Second place: Yigi Wang, Lakewood Ranch, Florida (148)
Third place: Luke Harrigan, Hobe Sound, Florida (148)
A special award went to Nathan Drummond of Westchase, Florida, who shot a 67 over 18 holes.
A personal note of congratulations goes to Mason Dean Hampton of Shalimar Pointe, who at just 12 years old finished in the top 25 among 54 boys. His performance hints at an exciting future in the sport.
With perfect weather throughout the week, the tournament offered an ideal setting for players and families alike. Growing the game of golf for the next generation often begins with opportunities like this — and once again, these young athletes brought their “A” game to Okaloosa County.
