Landon Ashcraft’s Historic Achievement in Arizona High School Golf
On October 30, 2023, Landon Ashcraft, a senior at Notre Dame Preparatory High School in Scottsdale, made history by becoming the first Arizona high school golfer to secure three consecutive individual state titles. This remarkable achievement came during the Division II boys tournament, held at the Aguila Golf Course in Laveen, Arizona, solidifying his place in the annals of Arizona high school golf.
Ashcraft’s stellar performance throughout the tournament was nothing short of impressive. He shot an astounding 65 on the first day, followed by a solid 70 on the second day, bringing his total to an impressive 9-under par with a score of 135. Notably, Ashcraft’s success not only highlighted his individual prowess but also propelled Notre Dame to its second straight Division II state championship. This victory comes just two weeks before he is set to sign his national letter of intent with Texas A&M University, further underscoring his promising future in collegiate golf.
The competition was fierce, with Ashcraft narrowly edging out his teammate Frederick Egnatios, who finished with a two-day total of 136. Easton Reischi of Horizon finished strong in third place with a score of 137, closely followed by another Notre Dame golfer, Xander Mulder, who finished fourth with a score of 138, just one shot behind Reischi. Ashcraft’s ability to maintain composure under pressure showcased his experience and skill on the golf course.
Reflecting on his victory, Ashcraft expressed his excitement and determination leading up to the state tournament. "It was quite the few days at state, and I’m super excited to come out with the win," he shared. "Going into the tournament, I genuinely felt like I was going to accomplish this." His confidence was well-founded, as he had not lost to any competitor all season, which undoubtedly contributed to his mental fortitude during the championship.
The pressure of being the first Arizona high school golfer to achieve three state titles did not seem to faze Ashcraft. He described the achievement as "surreal," emphasizing its significance in his athletic career. "This accomplishment means a lot to me," he stated. "Being the first person in Arizona history to win three state titles is pretty surreal. To actually back it up with a win after all the talk was one of the proudest moments of my career so far."
Scott Watkins, head coach of the Notre Dame golf team, likened Ashcraft to a five-tool athlete, illustrating his all-around capabilities. "I don’t know how many tools we have in golf, but he pretty much has them all," Watkins remarked. "He hits it long, hits it straight, and excels in approach shots, chipping, and putting." However, what has truly set Ashcraft apart in recent months is his mental game. "That switch flipped, and it’s been awesome to watch," Watkins commented, highlighting the mental improvements Ashcraft has made.
In a broader context, Notre Dame’s victory was significant, as they finished ahead of their competitors, with Scottsdale Desert Mountain securing second place. Tied for third were Tucson Catalina Foothills and Phoenix Arcadia, both of which showcased strong performances but were unable to match Notre Dame’s exceptional play.
Switching gears to the girls Division II tournament, Scottsdale Chaparral emerged victorious with a two-day total of 611, leaving runner-up Tucson Catalina Foothills trailing by a remarkable 64 shots. Tyla Greenwood from Tucson Mica Mountain stood out individually, capturing the girls’ state title with an impressive score of 141. Cynthia Lang of Seton Catholic secured second place with a score of 143, while Lexi Goyen of ALA Gilbert North and Charlene Lamb from Cactus Shadows tied for third at 146.
As Arizona high school golf continues to evolve, Ashcraft’s milestone achievement is set to inspire future generations of golfers in the state. With his upcoming commitment to Texas A&M and a legacy of excellence established, Ashcraft’s journey serves as a beacon of hope and motivation for aspiring athletes. His story emphasizes not just talent but also the importance of hard work and resilience in the face of challenges.
In conclusion, Landon Ashcraft’s monumental achievement in winning three consecutive state titles serves as a testament to his skill, dedication, and mental strength. As he prepares to transition to the collegiate level, the Arizona golf community anxiously looks forward to witnessing what this talented young golfer will accomplish next. His narrative—filled with hard work, ambition, and unprecedented success—will undoubtedly resonate in the lore of Arizona high school sports for years to come.
For those interested in following more remarkable stories from Arizona’s high school athletic scene, consider subscribing to daily sports newsletters and local coverage that highlight the feats of student-athletes like Ashcraft. Stay informed and inspired by the passion and dedication displayed by these young competitors, as they continue to push boundaries and set new records in the world of sports.
By encapsulating the essence of high school sportsmanship in Arizona, Landon Ashcraft’s story goes beyond just golf; it underscores the wider narrative of growth, history, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.
