SANDALS Foundation Academy standout Oshae Haye emerged the most talked-about player at the end of the recent Jamaica Golfing Association Flights Classic, not only winning the 17 and under crown, but also tying with Hoerman Cupper Tommy Lee for the lowest overall score.

Haye carded 82 on the opening day, before finding his groove on the second, hitting a masterful 74 for a 156 total, at the tournament held at the Caymanas Golf Club.

“It felt good to shoot the round of 74,” said a delighted Haye. “On the second day I really found my short game and putted well. I am a very confident player and once I get going I know I can shoot low rounds.”

The remainder of the Sandals Foundation players also performed well at the event, with Zandra Roye placing second in the 17 and under section, six strokes behind Haye at 162. Third place in that category went to another Academy standout Austin Swaby on 172, with matching rounds of 81.

Romaine Evans also dominated the 15 and under category, shooting 170 to emerge the top player.

Haye hails from Mile End, a small community in St Ann, neighbouring the Sandals Golf and Country Club, and home to many of the local caddies. He said his introduction to golf started four years ago, while watching his cousin having a whale of a time on the Sandals Golf and Country Club course. He enjoyed what he saw, asked if he could join in the fun and quickly got bitten by the golfing bug.

“Playing golf is very enjoyable. It has given me a lot of new experiences and allowed me to meet players from different parts of the world,” Hayne noted.

Dave Reid, general manager of Sandals Golf and Country Club, was full of praise for the young players, and pointed out that they have been training very hard and showing improved dedication.

Reid noted that there were exciting plans ahead for the youngsters, which should help to take their game to another level.