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Two Santa Catalina Lower and Middle School students were part of the first class to compete in a new junior golf tournament hosted by Tiger Woods.

Anika, in seventh grade, and Naksh, in fifth, participated in the inaugural TGR JR Invitational presented by TaylorMade, held October 8-10 at Pebble Beach. They were among 60 junior golfers to be selected for the tournament from more than 600 applications. The golfers were chosen based on video and written essays as well as on- and off-course accomplishments.

Anika competed in the Girls 10-12 Division, while Naksh competed in the Boys 10-12 Division. They got to play at The Hay, a new short course designed by Woods, and The Links at Spanish Bay.

“It was definitely a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” said Anika, adding that it was surreal to meet Woods. “I didn’t know what to say really. But it was cool seeing a professional athlete in front of you and not on TV.”

Anika took up golf when COVID-19 hit, and played last year for the Cougars. Naksh, who has been playing for three years, looks forward to joining the team next year.

Though Anika enjoys playing team sports, she likes that golf gives her a chance to focus on herself. “It’s just fun to see yourself hitting good shots,” she said.