Photo caption: Left to Right: Hunter Chen, Riley Stidham, Kallum De Guia, Kason Shotwell and Jake Chen. (Credit: First Tee Tucson Photo)
Nine Junior Golfers Get the Chance of a Lifetime
Nine Arizona kids just did something most grown-ups only dream about—they played golf at Pebble Beach, one of the most famous courses in the world!
In September, Mason Danninger, Caroline Hoang, Malakai Jazayeri, and Ashley Shawn joined Hunter Chen, Riley Stidham, Kallum De Guia, Kason Shotwell, and Jake Chen to represent Arizona in the Pure Insurance Championship in California. The tournament brings together 80 of the best junior golfers in the country, ages 15 to 18.
That’s a huge accomplishment! Each player earned their spot through First Tee, a program that helps kids learn golf skills along with important life lessons like honesty, confidence, and respect.
Walking the Same Course as the Pros
Pebble Beach sits on the edge of the Pacific Ocean. It’s known for its green hills, rocky cliffs, and crashing waves that line the fairways. It’s one of the most beautiful—and toughest—courses in the world.
During the tournament, every junior golfer was paired with a PGA Tour Champions pro, a real professional golfer who competes all over the world. The pros gave tips, encouragement, and advice about staying calm under pressure. Imagine walking the same course where Tiger Woods, Jack Nicklaus, and Annika Sörenstam once played—that’s what these Arizona kids got to do!
How They Got There
Getting to Pebble Beach didn’t happen overnight. Each player spent years practicing in the Arizona heat, playing in tournaments, and showing good sportsmanship on and off the course.
To qualify, they had to do more than hit great shots. They also had to show strong character and leadership. As part of the process, players shared how golf has helped them grow as people—learning lessons like patience, perseverance, and respect for others. Judges from the First Tee looked for kids who care about making a difference, both in the game and in their communities.
More Than a Tournament
The week at Pebble Beach was about more than just golf. It was about learning, teamwork, and friendship.
The players spent long days practicing, competing, and cheering for each other. They learned how to stay focused under pressure, recover from tough shots, and keep smiling no matter what the scorecard said.
And of course, there was time for fun—taking photos by the ocean, trading stories with their pro partners, and celebrating every amazing shot along the way.
Arizona Proud
When the tournament ended, the nine Arizona golfers went home with new memories, new confidence, and a lot of inspiration. They proved that with practice, patience, and heart, big dreams really can come true—no matter your age or where you’re from.
Way to go, Arizona golfers! You showed everyone that kids from the desert can shine just as bright on the greens of Pebble Beach!
