Shoemaker Wins Third Straight NYS Girls’ Junior Title
HAMILTON, N.Y. – Three-peat.
Bailey Shoemaker captured her third-straight New York State Girls’ Junior Amateur title this week at Seven Oaks Golf Club at the age of only 14.
The young star from West Edmeston secured her victory with a one-over 73 in the second round to win by seven strokes at three-over 147.
Related: Final Results / Photos / R1 Recap / Past Champions
After both opening with a 74, Shoemaker and Amber Pennington of Wiltwyck Golf Club were tied for the top spot heading into the final 18 holes. Two birdies and an eagle on the front nine propelled Shoemaker to a three-stroke lead at the turn.
“It wasn’t my best week, especially being my home course. I still got it done playing scrappy ball,” Shoemaker said.
Speaking on the opportunity to play at home, Shoemaker said, “It is one of my favorite New York courses, if not the favorite. I just love coming here to play and I wish all my tournaments were here. Seeing the trophy in the pro shop, I love it.”
Shoemaker joins two past champions with three consecutive victories, including Kerri Murphy from 1993-95, and Nannette Hill from 2000-2002.
“It’s awesome. I thought I would be the only one to three-peat, but it is okay because I’ll just be back next year. Three in a row is so special and crazy. It is so cool just to have that,” Shoemaker said.
Mikah McDonnell of Locust Hill Country Club finished in second at ten-over 154. McDonnell came in third at last year’s championship.
“I felt really strong off the tee. I was able to put myself in really good positions and create opportunities to make a couple shots. I felt pretty good. I loved the groups I was playing with; they are all really nice girls and I had a lot of fun,” McDonnell said.
Pennington and Lauren Chen of Met PGA Junior Golf Club tied for second at 155.
Rounding out the top five was Maya Beasley of Hollow Brook Golf Club, who finished at 156.
Once again, Shoemaker will be back next year to defend and has four more chances to tally on more titles.
Winners were also recognized based on age groups with the following competitors taking home some hardware: Lily Zhang (12 & under), Julia Zigrossi (13), Beasley (14), Amie Scherrer (15), Chen (16), Taylor Miano (17), and Emily Kase (18).
