Canton, Mass. – The New England PGA Junior Tour hosted the 2025 Junior Tour Open Championship at Ponkapoag Golf Course in Canton, MA on July 9th and July 10th with tee times starting at 8am on Day 1, and 12pm on Day due to a rain delay. 86 boys and girls from the ages of 12 to 18 made the trip to Southern Boston to compete in the stroke play 27-hole tournament. Harsh weather conditions affected the amount of holes played, however it did not stop the players from playing amazing golf!
Sam Yu of Northridge, California took home first place in the Boys’ Overall title, shooting a combined 3-under, 70-34-104. Yu flew out from West to compete and showed his dominance by shooting a 2-under on the first day. His 3 birdies on day 1 and his 2 birdies on day 2 were the ultimate reason for his victory. A great showing for his first competitive round in New England.
Chase Thomas of Canton, Massachusetts placed second in the division, shooting a 2-under, 70-35-105. Thomas proved he can show out at his home course, posting an eagle on hole 18 and 4 birdies on day 1. Thomas also tacked on 3 birdies in the 9 holes on day 2, keeping him in contention.
Emma Lockhart of Barrington, Rhode Island placed first in the Girls’ Overall Division, shooting a combined 2-under, 70-36-106. Lockhart shined on day 1, racking up an eagle on hole 6 and 4 birdies, completing her round at 3-under and protecting her lead by 7 strokes. Her birdie on hole 18 of day 2 ended her dominant round in fashion.
Josie Lefebvre of Manchester, New Hampshire held the second place spot, shooting an 8-over, 77-39-116. An impressive 3 birdies in the first round and consistent play in day 2 propelled her to a strong score in tough conditions.
Richard Taylor led the boys 12-13 division with a +7, 77-37-114, posting 3 birdies during his rounds and long streaks of pars.
The second round resulted in a 4-hour delay due to torrential downpour that spread throughout the night and morning, causing unfortunate course conditions that resulted in pushing the tournament to 27 holes instead of 36.
SidelineSwap was present at the tournament for both days, hosting a Trade-In Event that allows people to exchange used sports equipment for money. Thank you to Owen Harding, former NEPGA Junior Tour Intern and SidelineSwap for supporting our event!
Congratulations to the champions of the New England PGA Junior Tour Open Championship! Thank you to all players in the 2 days for participating!
Thank you to Head Professional, Jim Burke, PGA, and the entire Ponkapoag Golf Course staff for hosting and making this event possible!