Everett Harris wins CH Junior Open

Congratulations to Everett Harris who was the Nett winner of the 6-hole division at the Central Highlands Junior Open.

“It feels really good!” says Everett. “I won the least number of putts for the day as well, so I was pretty proud of myself. It was awesome having my Dad there to support me and I got to hang out with my golf friends from all of the other towns!”

“For his first ever representative golf season, he’s had an absolute blinder!” says proud Dad, Jonathan ‘Boff’ Harris.

There were countless memories made over the season, but a stand out for Everett was when he nearly chipped in for a real birdie (2nd shot) on a Par 3 at Moranbah. “It JUST missed the hole, stopping past it by about 10cm! I also like the nervous feeling I have before they announce who the winners are for the day.”

Even though the 2023 season is over, that doesn’t mean the golf has stopped for Everett.

He and Boff continue their practice sessions at home, then there’s the Chook Run at the Golf Club on Friday afternoons and the Social Ambrose on Sundays, and, of course, their hotly contested chipping competitions on the front lawn.

“We’ve actually had to deem two of them a tie as it was too close to call,” says Boff. “I’ve still got Ev covered for now, although I don’t feel I’ll be holding the title for too much longer!”

Looking ahead to the 2024 season, Everett says he has his sights set on moving up to the 9-hole competition of the Junior Season, so he can “maybe win the 9-hole Golfer of the Year award!”.

“The move into the 9-hole competition requires quite an increase in mental discipline and mental stamina,” Boff explains. “The energetic approach and physical endurance side of things really isn’t an issue for kids of Ev’s age, as I’m sure every parent would know. But the concentration side of things, that’s a whole different story!”

But the 2023 season has taught Everett some valuable lessons that he’ll take with him into next year. “I’ve learned to never give up and concentrate right until the end. I came second in Blackwater by two shots, and I four-putted on the last green from about one meter! So now I know to try and keep concentrating for every shot.”

“I’m extremely thankful to Tieri Golf Club, in particular Mick “Cuttsy” Cutts, our Club President, and Ev’s coach, Terry Price, who have both contributed to Ev’s development over the last year,” expresses Boff. “Both of these men have a great rapport with Ev and I really appreciate them going out of their way to give him some time out of their day. And also to all the Club members that make Ev so welcome whenever he’s hanging around the club – thanks guys!”