Charlie Woods shot the first-round low of 1-under 70 at the Junior PGA Championship. He recorded a score of 70 on the Kampen-Cosler Course in the Birck Boilermaker Golf Complex. The 16-year-old golfer made a strong start, birdieing six of his first eight holes and finishing the front nine at an impressive 5-under 31.
Woods had an even more difficult week when he failed to make the match play rounds at the U.S. Junior Amateur Championship in Dallas. Now, he’s just as fierce in his desire to claim one of the two automatic berths on the Junior Ryder Cup squad. This week’s performance is key for him, as he’ll be looking to place at least in the top two of competitors.
Woods then showcased that potential by shooting a final round 66. This phenomenal showing launched him up the leaderboard 42 positions. This shot took him to 9 under for the tournament. As he played the back nine, he realized he was close to the top. His hot start carried over as he made three birdies in a row to start the back nine at holes 1, 2, and 3. Then, a pair of bogeys interrupted his momentum and dropped him back to 7 under.
Woods is seven shots off the pace set by tournament leader Lunden Esterline. As for Esterline, he’s already lined up a return trip with the Eagles for 2027 at Auburn. ProMax’s Max VanderMolen and Chase Yenser are leading the charge, tied at 9 under par. On the other hand, Woods still has 36 holes to play in the championship.
The Junior Ryder Cup team is allowed one captain’s pick. Because Woods has struggled to find his best level, he is under pressure for selection. Regardless, his first-round efforts should bode well for a long and productive career in competitive golf.
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