Bubba Watson Fellowship of Christian Athletes High School Golf Tournament: A Celebration of Youth Golf Talent

The Bubba Watson Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) High School Golf Tournament celebrated its 30th anniversary, cementing its reputation as a prestigious event in the local high school golf circuit. This year, the tournament, held at the A.C. Read course on Naval Air Station Pensacola, featured remarkable performances from talented golfers across the region, with notable contributions from none other than two-time Masters champion, Bubba Watson.

A Star-Studded Affair

Bubba Watson, a beloved local hero and successful professional golfer, graced the tournament by handing out awards and engaging with high school competitors. Watson’s presence isn’t just a nod to his achievements, but also a testament to his roots in the area, having started his golfing journey in Pensacola. Known for his unique shot-making ability and charismatic personality, Watson has come a long way from his high school days, where he competed for Milton High School and began to carve his path in professional golf.

Stellar Performances

The tournament witnessed outstanding individual performances, particularly from Mac Gilmer and Elizabeth Palmer of Pensacola Catholic. On September 15, Gilmer clinched the boys’ division title with an impressive 3-under-par score of 69. His strong play established him as a formidable competitor, showcasing his potential for a bright future in golf. Tying for second place were Adam Penrod from Pace High and Baylor Touchstone from Tate, both finishing with a commendable score of 71.

Record-Setting Rounds

The following day, Elizabeth Palmer turned heads with her remarkable 6-under-par 66, making history as one of the top rounds ever played by a female competitor at this event. Palmer’s performance was nothing short of sensational as she held off Lily Martin from South Walton, who finished just one stroke behind with a stellar 5-under 67. Such performances not only highlight their exceptional skill but also elevate the tournament to a platform for showcasing emerging golfing talent in the region.

A Tribute to Tradition

The Bubba Watson-FCA Tournament is not just any golf competition; it has evolved into one of the most significant 18-hole events for high school golfers in Northwest Florida. With offerings such as breakfast and a post-round lunch, the tournament fosters a sense of community and camaraderie among participants, making it a cherished tradition for high school golf teams in the area.

Leadership and Growth

Under the guidance of Mike Killam, the long-time metro director of the Northwest Florida-FCA chapter, the tournament has become a beacon of excellence within the FCA community. Having been involved with the local chapter for over three decades, Killam has played a crucial role in shaping the tournament’s growth, including the time when Watson himself participated as a high school player. This experience adds layers of inspiration for young golfers competing today.

Record Attendance

This year, the tournament attracted an impressive 22 boys’ teams and 17 girls’ teams, totaling 105 male participants and 86 female competitors, making it one of the largest gatherings of high school golf talent in the region. With most high school matches consisting of nine holes, the Bubba Watson-FCA Tournament provides a vital opportunity for athletes to prepare for upcoming district and state regional tournaments.

Team Achievements

In the boys’ team competition, the Pensacola Catholic Crusaders emerged victorious with an overall score of 289, showcasing their depth and talent. Tate and Pace followed closely, finishing their rounds with scores of 304 and 311, respectively. The competition for team titles was fierce, and this victory reaffirmed Catholic’s dominance in local high school golf.

Highlights of the Girls’ Division

On the girls’ side, the Niceville Eagles triumphed in a playoff against South Walton after both teams finished with a total score of 340. With talented players like Tenley Sharron leading her team with a score of 73, Niceville proved its mettle in high-pressure situations. Gulf Breeze rounded out the top three with a score of 352, further demonstrating the competitive spirit prevalent throughout the tournament.

Conclusion: A Bright Future for High School Golf

The Bubba Watson Fellowship of Christian Athletes High School Golf Tournament not only serves as a platform for showcasing talent but also acts as a catalyst for growth and development among young athletes. As they prepare for the challenges ahead in their golfing careers, events like these foster camaraderie and inspire the next generation of golfers. With community support and the involvement of icons like Bubba Watson, the future looks bright for high school golf in Pensacola and the broader Northwest Florida region.

For more updates on local sports, events, and stories, you can follow Bill Vilona, a retired Pensacola News Journal sports columnist and senior writer for the Pensacola Blue Wahoos. You can reach him at bvilona@bluewahoos.com for insights and stories from the world of sports.