EASLEY, SC (June 8, 2022) – Final round results of the Upstate Junior Classic hosted by Smithfields Country Club on Wednesday, June 8, 2022.
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Jace Danbom of Easley made history becoming the youngest player to claim the overall boys champion title at age 14. He finished the tournament at one-under par 143 to take home the overall title, as well as the boys 13-14 division title.
“It was tough and windy today,” said Danbom. “I really had to fight for a lot of pars. This is my home course so it feels good to win here and it really means a lot. I’ve been working really hard so to win and make history is a good feeling and feels like my hard work paid off.”
Bennett Scaletta of Belton finished in second place in the boys 13-14 division, posting eight-over par 152 overall for the tournament.
Anne Fernandez of Bluffton made an impressive five birdies to finish with a final round score of two-under par 70. Overall, she posted three-under par 141 for the tournament to be crowned champion of the girls 13-18 division.
“I made three birdies in six holes on the back nine which motivated me to finish strong,” said Fernandez. “Overall, I’m happy that I kept my composure and it was a great day. I love it here and the golf and competition in South Carolina is unreal, so this feels really great.”
Emily Baker of Chapin took home second in this division, finishing with an overall score of seven-over par 151.
In the boys 15-18 division, Jay Smith of Florence finished in first place, carding a final score of even-par 144, overall. He had three birdies in a row on his last three holes to take the lead and claim victory in this division.
“I got off to about the worst start I probably could have today,” said Smith. “The rest of my round was really just a grind and I was able to have a really solid finish. It feels awesome to be the champion of my division and be rewarded for putting in hard work. It’s always nice to see good results.”
Cade Kriscunas of Hilton Head finished the tournament at two-over par 146 to take home second place in the boys 15-18 division.
After a one-hole playoff, Jack Coleman of Aiken claimed victory in the boys 10-12 division, carding one-over par 73 overall for the tournament.
“I hit my driver really well and kept it in play,” Coleman said. “I feel like that was really the difference for me. It feels good to be the champion of my division. I have wanted to play in this tournament for a few years and to now win it feels incredible.”
Will McCraw of Inman finished the final round back-nine at one-under 35 to take second place in this division.
About the South Carolina Junior Golf Association
The purpose of the South Carolina Junior Golf Association is to continue the history and traditions of the ancient game of golf through its members and an active outreach to the youth of our state. Established in 1990 by community leaders with a love for the game and a commitment to passing on golf’s heritage to the youth of South Carolina, the SCJGA is committed to meeting the needs of all young people in the state and providing playing opportunities to boys and girls that might not otherwise have the chance to experience golf and its many benefits. Through affordable opportunities of play, instruction and competition, juniors of all ages, walks of life and skill levels will be touched by the character of the game. It helps to teach them honor, sportsmanship and respect and makes them better prepared to face the challenges ahead in life.
