World Junior Golf Championships: New Forest boy Henry Atkinson scoops world junior silver in Marbella, Spain

LYNDHURST nine-year-old Henry Atkinson continues to thrive on the global stage after winning silver at the World Junior Golf Championship after three challenging days.

Hosted at Villa Padierna in Marbella, Spain, the British Junior Golf Tour’s world championship event saw Henry and 38 others in the eight to nine age category take on 56 holes at Flamingos – a hilly course with numerous hazards in conditions unlike those he practices in winter in the UK.

After just day one of the event, Henry was placed second on the leaderboard. He then headed out in the leading group the following two days.

A nail-biting final round saw Henry sink the final putt on the 18th hole to secure his runner-up position.

The accolade is Henry’s second top 10 achievement in as many international events, having finished tied seventh in the IMG Academy Junior World Championships in San Diego in 2023, where he will be competing again in July after winning the British qualifier for the nine to 10 age group.

Henry spoke about his achievement: “Competing in Spain was lots of fun, and it was really good to see some of my friends from the San Diego tournament again.

“The course was really tough, but I loved it, and I was very pleased to get my silver trophy.”

Henry’s dad, Luke Atkinson, who caddied for Henry during the competition, added: “We are beyond proud of Henry. This is a huge achievement and one that he has worked so hard for over the past several months.

“To go out to Spain and have just one day to adapt to completely different conditions to back home, whilst competing against some of the best players in the world, is an incredible effort.

“We can’t wait for the next challenge.”

The focus now moves on to the premier junior golfing event on the calendar, the IMG championships in San Diego this summer.

Henry will also continue representing his county as part of the U12s Hampshire Golf squad and participating in local club competitions.

Henry is looking to secure sponsorship to help with the demands of elite-level junior golf, and any individual or business interested in supporting one of the UK’s young sporting talents can contact Henry’s dad at lja2003@yahoo.co.uk

Alternatively, to support Henry’s journey, visit his fundraising page at gofund.me/83429ee5