Local Golfer to Compete at International Tournament

Ryker Smith takes a swing during a golf competition representing Carbon High last Fall. (Photo Credit: Ryker Smith).
Local golfer Ryker Smith will compete in the Optimist International Junior Golf Championship later this month in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida.
Smith, a three-time First Team All-State golfer for Carbon, qualified for the tournament last month in a qualifying tournament at Sleepy Ridge and East Bay golf courses. 
In the qualifying tournament against 120 other golfers, Smith posted a 68 in the final round to help him qualify to represent the Pacific Central Utah District in Florida.
Three other golfers in the state also will join Smith in Florida to compete against 140 other golfers from across the world. 
According to Smith, the tournament later this month in Florida will be one of the biggest moments of his young career.
“It’s one of the biggest for sure. It’ll be the first time I have played and competed out of the state,” said Smith.
 “I hope you learn a lot and see how well I compare to other kids outside of Utah.”
The Optimist International Junior Golf Championship won’t be the final time Smith will compete at a high level.
He will be heading to Cedar City this fall to enroll at Southern Utah University and play golf for the Thunderbirds.
“I know it’ll be a big jump from high school golf but I’m excited to be able to continue to play and better my game,” said Smith.
The Junior Golf Championship will be held on July 27 through August 1 at the PGA National Resort and Spa.