Junior golfers flock to Leavenworth Golf Club

The Leavenworth Golf Club is known as the best kept secret in North Central Washington – and several local young golfers learned a little bit of what makes it so special.

The LGC hosted its annual junior golf camp for the fourth year, June 18-21. Groups were split into two sessions: 5-10 year olds in the morning and 11-17 in the afternoon.

Assistant Pro Tynan Vincent has been running the camp for four years. He noted the number of kids who came to the 2019 camp exceeded attendance from previous years.

“We’ve had a junior program and it’s been something we've want to put an emphasis on recently,” Vincent said. “(The program) helps grow the game, and these kids are our future membership.”

The camp focuses on teaching basic fundamentals to young golfers, especially since many of the kids had not been the LGC or even held a club. Vincent said he likes to have campers start the first day on the green "before taking them back.”

Kids started the camp by learning putting technique and swings while on the second day, they received chipping tips and techniques.

On the third day, campers learned the motions for a golf swing and worked with the different clubs in their bag. Vincent walked them through each motion before having campers transition to a fluid swing. He also emphasized to golfers to start their backswing slow before releasing their power as they move their arms and bodies forward. 

Kids also learned the differences between chipping and making a full swing.

During the final day of camp, golfers had the opportunity to explore the course and learn the various rules and golf etiquette. They also learned how to interact with other players and gained some insight on how the LGC operates.

In addition to teaching kids golf basics, Vincent also hopes campers had fun and meet new friends during their time at camp. He noted that golf is a social sport and some LGC members who play together have been friends since they were little kids. 

Vincent did not have to worry about kids having fun. Each day young golfers worked with different partners. Several kids got in some shots and socializing on the putting green before camp started.

The assistant pro also wanted campers to take away lessons they could use off the golf course. 

“Golf is a great sport and kind of resembles life,” Vincent said. “Some days, you’ll find yourself in difficult situations and struggle, but if you keep trying working hard, you’ll succeed.”