KUNA, Idaho – Usually as August rolls around the focus of kids around the country turns to the impending school year, but on Tuesday at Falcon Crest Golf Course the focus was narrowed on the first round of the 2018 Idaho Junior Amateur sponsored by Diamond Line Delivery.
The round of the day belonged to Garrett Packebush of Liberty Lake, Wa. His 6-under 66 including 6 birdies and an eagle placed him 4 shots clear of second place in the Boys 13-15 division.
The Boys 16-18 division featured a tie for first between two Treasure Valley players. Meridian’s Tristan Belue and Jack Curran both shot an even par 72 on a long, difficult setup.
Carly Carter, fresh off an appearance at the Girls’ Jr. America’s Cup, topped the leaderboard of the Girls 13-15 division with a 1-under 71. The Girls 16-18 division is led by another Girls Jr. America’s Cup Team Idaho member – Makena Rauch with a 74 (+2).
The 9-hole players (ages 9-12) made a statement, too. Tyce Helmick and Reid Piron have been stalwarts in Boise area Junior Tour competition and continued playing well in the pressure packed season finale. Both boys shot 34 (-2) to lead the Boys 11-12 division.
Tuesday night was capped with games hosted by Joe Malay and a dinner for all players and their families.
Players age 9-18 qualified through Idaho Junior Tour District Tournaments, Top 1000 AJGA or Junior Golf Scoreboard rankings, or District Player of the Year Exemptions. Winners of the Boys & Girls 16-18 divisions claim the Joe Marmo Cup (Boys) or Jackie Gasser Cup (Girls).
View the full leaderboard: