Heavy Weather Can’t Stop Rising Stars at Emiliano Grillo Junior Open
First Round Interrupted Twice by Thunderstorms
The first round of the Emiliano Grillo Junior Open started smoothly but was soon interrupted not once, but twice, by sudden thunderstorms. Despite the weather, the talented young golfers demonstrated their skill and resilience on the Pilará GC course, presented in excellent conditions.
Esmoris Leads After Completion of First 18 Holes
Uruguayan Juan Cruz Esmoris, representing CG Uruguay, emerged atop the leaderboard after completing the first 18 holes with a remarkable score of 67 (-5). The 17-year-old left the 18th green with confidence after a solid performance:
“I think the best thing about the game was that I was able to make quite a few putts and I also hit several fairways. And well, I did pretty well with the irons.”
Constenla and MartÃnez Cabañas Trail Close Behind
Local Valentino Constenla (Pilar Golf, 16) and Paraguayan Lucas MartÃnez Cabañas (Yacht & Golf Club Paraguayo) are just one stroke behind Esmoris, both having completed their rounds with a score of 68 (-4).
- Constenla, despite last year’s missed cut, showed remarkable improvement:
“I hit the driver well, left many balls close and made several putts.”
- MartÃnez Cabañas found confidence in his putter:
“I felt confident with the putter. I didn’t hit the woods that well, but I knew I could hit the green and make those important putts.”
Surprise Performance by 14-Year-Old Aranda
Emanuel Aranda (Boulogne Golf Club, 14) surprised everyone by finishing fourth with a score of 69 (-3). Despite picking up the game just 2.5 years ago, Aranda demonstrated impressive resilience and skill:
“I hit well, I had comfortable distances and I scored a lot. On the second nine I slowed down a little, but I closed with a birdie.”
Weather Woes Refrain but Don’t Deter Competitors
Ramón Cenoz, deputy director of AAG Rules and tournament referee, highlighted the players’ safety as a priority amidst the weather instability:
“We had to suspend the game twice due to electrical activity. They were not predicted, but two storms formed very quickly. Luckily we managed to evacuate all the players in time.”
The course, despite the rain, remained in excellent condition.
Women’s Category Promising as Competition Continues
The women’s category (up to 19 years) and the men’s category (up to 13 years) will continue the competition on Wednesday and later in the day for the second round.
Pro Tip
Tournament director, Fourwinds Sports & Entertainment, and Bluedotputt, along with sponsors like KIA, Fast Track, and Philips TV & Sound, ensure excellent organization and support for these junior golfers.
Did you know?
The Emiliano Grillo Junior Open integrates both the International Pathway Series of the American Junior Golf Association and the JUNGLE circuit.
Going Forward: What’s Next for the Emiliano Grillo Junior Open
The competition will resume tomorrow with the continuation of the first round, starting at 8:00 AM local time. After that, the second round will commence, promising even more intense and exciting golf action from these talented young players.