We’re bursting with pride as JGAA alum Carlos Astiazaran adds another chapter to his story—clinching the 125th North & South Men’s Amateur Championship at the iconic Pinehurst No. 2 on June 28. The wins etches his name on the legendary Putter Boy Trophy.
The North & South Amateur is one of the oldest and most storied U.S. amateur tournaments—previous winners include legends like Jack Nicklaus and Curtis Strange, and Curtis once called the Putter Boy his favorite trophy. The playoff win at Pinehurst No. 2 adds his name to that elite legacy.
It was a true underdog story for the future Vanderbilt golfer. Entering match play as the #31 seed, Astiazaran overcame steep odds, battling through a 21-hole quarterfinal and a 4 & 3 semifinal to reach the championship match.
In the final, he squared off against Tyler Watts, with the match locked at all square through 18 holes. On the first playoff hole, Carlos calmly sunk a clutch birdie putt to seal a 1-up victory and take home the title.
This win caps off an amazing summer run for Astiazaran, who also won the 97th Mexican National Amateur Championship just weeks earlier and recently transferred from Pacific to join the elite golf program at Vanderbilt University.
Carlos’s triumph is a powerful example of the development path our juniors follow—from Arizona fairways to national amateur glory. His grit, clutch performances, and recent wins reflect the elite competition and training environment we foster at JGAA.
We can’t wait to see where Carlos’s journey leads next—whether that’s domination on the collegiate circuit or the onset of a pro career. For now, let’s celebrate this milestone and take pride in one of our own standing among amateur golf’s elite.
To read more about Carlos’s run at Pinehurst, check out the full recap.
