Playing under sub-zero conditions, Canada-based Dabawenya golf sensation Alessandra “Ella” Nagayo opened the 2022 season of the Canadian Junior Golf Association (CJGA) with a smashing triumph in the Season Opener last April 16-17 in Ontario, Canada.
The 18-year old Nagayo, daughter of Philippine Labor Attache to Canada and former city councilor Atty. Rachel Zozobrado-Nagayo, kept her game adrift despite the biting winter cold and snow at the Silver Brooke course. She carded a 7 over par 79 in the opening 18 holes before closing out with a better scorecard in the final round of the 36-hole tournament with a four over par 76 and 155 total.
“It’s not her best scores but she played better than the field. The conditions were just too tough,” the elder Nagayo told Edge Davao.
Julia Alexander Carew of Oakville, Ontario finished second two strokes behind at 157 while Olivia Chan of Richmond Hill was a far third at 205. Arielle Dhamija was fourth with a 221.
Nagayo, nicknamed “Swingderella”, has represented Canada in several international team tournaments since moving to Canada from Australia. She began her career as a jungolfer at the Apo Golf and Country Club.
