Sana finishes third in California golf

Sana with Kanyalak and Saranlak. — Supplied photo

Sana Tufail from Yas Links Golf Club Abu Dhabi was on the podium for the second time in as many weeks in California at the FCG Cobra Puma World Junior Championship held at the internationally acclaimed PGA West Jack Nicklaus Tournament Course in La Quinta over three days.

Sana took overall third place after fighting back with a 73 and 76 over the final two rounds in scorching heat with temperatures hitting over 115F on the final day. Kanyalak Preedasutthijit from Thailand took the title with a final day score of 70 (–2) with Saranlak Tumfong also from the strong Thai team represented at the event piping Sana for the runner-up position by three strokes.

Despite the hot summer conditions, the event attracted many college coaches seeking to recruit the best talent for their NCAA Div 1 teams. Sana has already been recruited by the University of Tulsa where she will be coached by LPGA player Emilee Klein the former Solheim Cup and British Ladies Open winner.

The World Championship hosted by Future Champions Golf (FCG) of San Diego attracts the best American and International juniors who pit themselves again each other for the World Title. Sana said: “It was tremendous to be in the final group on the last day. Kanyalak played exceptionally well and really putted well on the final day to deserve the title. It was also wonderful for the parents and supporters to come on the course and support us in such extreme weather “.

A spokesman for FCG said: “Although it is a World Championship, we really do make sure that the juniors and spectators enjoy this exceptional event and are safe with parents allowed to caddy.”