15-Year-Old Akshay Bhatia Flirts with History at Junior PGA Championship

There have been many incredible rounds of golf this season, with several players shooting a 59 on the PGA TOUR this year. Rarely, however, does a teenage golfer ever come close to this mark.

This is exactly what happened at the Boys Junior PGA Championship on Tuesday when 15-year old Akshay Bhatia stepped up to the tee at The Country Club of St. Albans. Entering the round, Bhatia was in contention for the title and did his best to take the lead, shooting a 61 on the day. Bhatia also had a chance to hit the magical 59 number, but an eagle opportunity from a creek at the side of the green came up just short on a chip.

“All I was thinking about was 59”

Still, a 61 is nothing to scoff at. Bhatia did most of his damage on his front nine, which for him was holes 10 through 18. The young man made five birdies to start the front before surrendering a par on his sixth hole of the day. Bhatia then bogeyed the turn but finished strong with four more birdies. The round put Bhatia at 14 under for the tournament, vaulting him into first place for the time being.

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After the round was over, Bhatia did admit that he was thinking about the possibility of shooting a 59. “All I was thinking about was 59,” said Bhatia. “It crept back in my mind. I once had a 63 on my home course but in a tournament, a 61 is special. It’s cool to set a record and have my place in history.”

For those who don’t think it is difficult to shoot so low in a junior championship event, Bhatia’s round actually broke several records. Not only is it the lowest round in course history, it is also the lowest round ever in the Junior PGA Championship. The previous record holders include impressive names, such as PGA TOUR pros Jordan Spieth, Miguel Cabrera-Bello, and Pat Perez.

Only time will tell if the young Bhatia will be able to hold on to win the Junior PGA Title but his record round will certainly be remembered for years to come.

Cover Image via Instagram