Hagestad grew up on the eighth hole of Big Canyon and started playing golf at around age 5. His early introduction into golf is not that uncommon among many kids that grow up around the sport. However, his story becomes unique after his first year of high school when his life transformed, headed for a career in golf.
After one year at Sage Hill School, Hagestad and his family decided to try a different type of schooling on the East Coast, more geared toward golf. He enrolled in the International Junior Golf Academy and the decision produced remarkable results.
“The first year I was there, I got a lot better very quickly,” said Hagestad, who is 18. “Before, if I was playing really well I would shoot even or one over. The next thing I know, I go out there and start shooting four or five rounds in a row at even or better. It was like, whoa, where did this come from?”
However, the question for Hagestad now is not where did this come from? But rather, where is it about to go?
The potential for Hagestad seems endless. He only has one semester left at IJGA and has already verbally committed to USC. He is among the top players on the international junior golf scene and has the chance to set himself apart from the pack beginning Thursday.
Hagestad will be playing in the Optimist International Junior Golf Championships at the PGA National course in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla. The tournament will be on the Champions course, which holds some memories for Hagestad.
Last year, he finished tied for second after he rallied on the back stretch after entering the final round in fourth. The international tournament is a four-day competition that can tax the endurance and concentration of pro golfers, let alone amateurs.
