Hudson Kelahear, 15, of Etobicoke, Canada shot 77, 77, and 78 for a 3-day total of 232 on his way to a 4-stroke victory at the 54-Hole College Prep Series at Kent State.
The HJGT recently caught up with Hudson to learn more about his big win and what’s up next for the first-time champion.
“I enjoy challenging myself with new experiences, where I might not be too comfortable or easy, but in the end, I learn a lot about myself,” admitted Hudson. “Since growing significantly, I have increased my driving distance and iron game since the beginning of the year.”
When asked about what he enjoys most about his experience on the Hurricane Tour, the high school sophomore says, “I appreciate the kindness I receive from the Hurricane team at each event and how they embrace me as a Canadian player, where they even pronounce my name correctly too. Ha!”
“I love the courses we get to play and the beautiful surrounding towns. The courses are all so different with respect to the look and difficulty of each layout and hole. The tournaments are always well run, and the Hurricane team makes sure we have sufficient water, and BioSteel to drink. They are very kind!”
On his win at Kent State: “It was exciting. And winning this event qualified me for the Tournament of Champions in December, too. A nice break from the cold weather!”
He added, “I played a lot of tournaments in Canada in the spring but the weather and conditions of the courses at that time of the year are not great, but it allows me to focus and learn how to play under pressure, which I love to do.” As a hockey goalie, I learn to manage individual responsibilities. I feel the pressure to stop the puck and winning the game is on me, so very similar to golf; it’s all on me to perform.”
WHAT’S NEXT FOR HUDSON?
“Academics are very important, as I place a premium on achieving high marks in all my core subjects.” When asked about his career aspirations, Hudson says, “I would like to develop every year at an accelerated pace to be able to play US College golf. I know that mentally I am strong enough to get there, I just need to get more experience in tournament play and the Hurricane tour is where I want to develop my skills. I want to be one of the successful players coming out of the Hurricane tour, to make it to a D1 school and have a career in Golf.”
“I love the Boston Red Sox, living in Toronto I get a lot of flack from my friends by wearing my Red Sox hat all summer. I enjoy meeting new people and traveling to places that I have never been before.”
“Playing on the Hurricane tour events this year, I have played with kids from Asia, and the USA which is such a cool experience.” He explains that he can’t wait to finish his school exams so he can play in the next tournament in early July.
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