A year ago at the Golfweek International Junior Invitational, Mara King took the first-round lead and, despite being outplayed in the second round, still finished in the top 5. Those memories were still fresh enough in King’s mind that when she made the return trip to Celebration Golf Club in Celebration, Florida, this week, she was able to use them for motivation.
“I think I’ve put myself in the position to be in contention enough that this year I kind of was calm enough to know I was capable of doing it,” said King, who lives in nearby Lake Mary, Florida. “Last year I placed well, and I’ve played a lot of tournaments here and I’m comfortable here so, played well.”
For the second year in a row, King opened the tournament with even-par 72. But on Sunday, she came back with a 2-under 70. That was good for a two-shot victory over Sahana Chokshi of Jacksonville, Florida.
Scores: Golfweek International Junior
Even better, King birdied her final two holes Sunday to create that margin of victory. It’s a testament to the focus she displayed in a close competition. Despite knowing scores were tight, King tried to focus on herself and ignore the leaderboard.
“I just know the best I can do is all I can do,” she reasoned.
King’s card was a bit colorful in the first round, and it included two bogeys and a double-bogey on the back nine. Still, King did more than enough to make up for it – she had nine birdies on the weekend.
King credits her putting, but also…
