TEXAS NATIVE GAMMON HOLDS ON FOR WIN AT HOT SPRINGS
17-year-old edges Davis by one stroke

HOT SPRINGS, Ark. - Michael Gammon of Garland, Texas, started the final round of the AJGA Ashworth Preseason Junior at Hot Springs a lot better than the first. The 17-year-old carded a 78 Sunday to claim his first AJGA win with a tournament total of 152.

The 36-hole stroke play tournament, conducted by the American Junior Golf Association, featured 84 boys, ages 13-18, representing 16 states. The tournament, which was the first-ever AJGA event in the state of Arkansas, was held on the Arlington Course at Hot Springs Country Club.

Gammon carded a 1-over-par 37 on the front nine to take a five-stroke lead over Reed Davis of Cordova, Tenn., as he made the turn. Bogeys on Nos. 10 and 11 and birdies by Davis on those holes made things interesting on the back nine.

"I started off better today," said Gammon, who was 4-over-par through the first two holes in his opening round. "I played well on the front nine but I did not play as well on the back nine. I ran into some trouble on No. 18. My goal today was just to beat my playing partners."

Gammons' second shot on the par-5, final hole was front right of the green. He then hit his approach shot 50 yards over the green and got up and down for a bogey and the win.

"Winning this tournament gives me confidence," Gammon said. "I am excited to get an opportunity to play in other AJGA events."

Davis finished one stroke back with a tournament total of 153, while Josh Bain of Abilene, Texas, placed third at 154. Rounding out the top five were Jason Cuthbertson of Conway, Ark., and Mu Hu of Bradenton, Fla., at 155 and 156, respectively.

The medalist, Gammon, earned three AJGA tournament exemptions. Those who placed in the top five earned two AJGA tournament exemptions, while one exemption was awarded to those who finished in the top 15.

The AJGA's Ashworth Preseason/Postseason Junior Series is a boys-only series designed specifically for first-time AJGA members or those members who have not yet participated in an AJGA Open event, AJGA Invitational or AJGA Nike Golf Junior All-Star Series event.

Now in its fourth year, the Ashworth Preseason/Postseason Junior Series grew from eight events in 2002 to 10 in 2003. The Series helps juniors gain the experience needed to compete at the national level.

For more information about the Ashworth Preseason Junior at Hot Springs, please contact the AJGA National Headquarters at (770) 868-4200.

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