Rose Zhang, 13, was tied at -1 under par after the first round of the 36 hole Southern California Junior Amateur Championship that was played at the Industry Hills Golf Club, City of Industry, CA. Rose was unable to hang onto the lead in the final round as she struggled with her swing that produced 3 double bogeys and only 2 birdies. Rose, has won 5 event’s in 2016 and is known for her consistency in coming from behind to win or by grinding out a win with a strong finish. It did not happen in this event.
Rose shot a -1 under par 70 on the Babe Zaharias Course that is known to be a “shot maker’s” course. Rose, spoke with her coach Sunday evening and told him that, “I can’t believe I made 3 double bogey’s today! I just seemed to lose my rhythm in my swing and the rhythm of my round. When I lost my rhythm, I seemed to be frustrated and that affected me in a negative way.” Rose and her coach, George Pinnell, talked for about 45 minute’s, with Pinnell, answering question’s that the 13 year old had about how disappointed she was in her performance over the past 2 week’s and how she could recover her winning way’s.
Zhang, has won 2 AJGA Championship’s and has several top 5 finish’s along with 3 Toyota Tour Cup win’s in 2016. Her strong, consistent play has earned her an invitation to the Polo Golf Junior Championship that will be played at the PGA National Resort & Spa, in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. The prestigious event will be contested November 19-25, 2016.
Amanda Lee, Chatsworth, CA, shot 83-77 (160) and finished in 36th place while 12 year old, Gabby Kano, struggled with an opening round 94. Gabby, rebounded in her final round with an 80 and a 14 shot improvement. She finished in a tie for 61st place. Isabella Yang, shot 97-95 and finished 70th.