Kikuoka Golf Club in Luxembourg hosted two simultaneous national tournaments under a blazing sun over the weekend. A new name emerged victorious in both: Arnaud Castellana, who became National Golf Champion for the first time.
Players competed under scorching conditions and extreme heat. From a total of 35 players aspiring to become the next champion, only 26 continued to the second day after a grueling first day of 36 holes, with rounds lasting more than five hours. On the ladies' side, all 15 starters completed the two days and 54 holes.
The conditions did not stop Castellana from earning the title with 217 strokes, finishing three ahead of his closest contender, runner-up Stefan Rojas. Third place was claimed by Andrew Rojas, who finished seven strokes behind Castellana. Both Rojas players put up a fierce fight.
In Castellana's words: "It feels great and very special to come out on top after a closely contested final round, with some excellent golf played throughout our group. The many birdies from all three players on the back nine made it particularly exciting, and it stayed tight all the way to the finish. Coming out on top after that intense battle makes this win even more special."
On the ladies' side, Lisa Steingrube dominated with 223 strokes, also becoming National Champion for the first time. Runner-up and previous National Champion Marie Baertz finished with 229 strokes, while Ella Miserini, with two strokes more, completed the podium.
The Mid-Am Championship finished with Castellana on top, followed by runner-up Jens Buch, who finished eight strokes behind. Third place went to Soren Fihl, who finished 17 strokes behind the leader.
On the ladies' side, only three players participated. Sofia Seldemirova finished in first place with 242 strokes, followed by Nathalie Decker with 270 strokes and Patricia Diederich with 276 strokes.
When asked what is next for the new National Champion, Castellana said: "Back to balancing work with my golf schedule, competing with my German team, playing the INTAM and representing Luxembourg in international team events over the coming months."
