PALM BEACH GARDENS, Fla. (CBS12) — As we watch PGA golfers like former Cardinal Newman star Brooks Koepka and Dwyer High School alum Daniel Berger tee off at the Sentry Tournament of Champions this week, we’re reminded of all of the Palm Beach County talent inspired by the Honda Classic over the years. The next wave of talent teed off on Saturday at PGA National in Palm Beach Gardens. The Junior Honda Classic might be a sign of things to come, as far as PGA and LPGA stars of the future.
We’ve already seen Charlie Woods in the national spotlight, playing with his dad Tiger Woods at the PNC Championship in December. On Saturday he was taking on the Fazio Course at PGA National. Of course his father has played in the Honda Classic several times, but Charlie was one of hundreds of young golfers who got to tackle the course they watch the PGA stars play on TV.
“From our perspective, this is as important an event for our community, for the game of golf, as the main Honda Classic is,” says Honda Classic Executive Director Ken Kennerly. “To play these great golf courses at PGA National, it gives them a real taste, and the same feeling that the professionals will have here in just a few week’s time.”
Palm Beach Gardens resident Madison Moman lives right at PGA National, but does not take playing at the home of the Honda Classic for granted. She fought through a windy afternoon of golf to shoot a four over 76, and is in 4th place heading into Sunday.
“The Junior Honda Classic is not only at my home course, but it also feels like you’re playing in the Honda Classic,” says Moman with a smile. “I may know the course like the back of my hand, but you also have to show how you are a good golfer (to succeed).”
The Junior Honda Classic wraps up on Sunday with the final round. The PGA Tour’s Honda Classic goes the week of February 21st through 27th.
