Kevin Aylwin

Kevin Aylwin edged out the field by one stroke to capture the 2007 Florida State Public Links Championship at Eagle Creek Golf Club in Orlando on July 20-22.

Kevin Aylwin, 18, of New Smyrna Beach, posted a tournament total of 10-under par 209 to win his first State Championship. In the first round, Aylwin made five birdies and hit 17 greens en route to firing a 5-under par 68. “I hit the ball perfect,” said Aylwin. Trailing the leader by two, Aylwin moved in front of the field with a second round 70. After 36 holes, Aylwin held a one stroke advantage heading into the final round of play. “I thought if I played like I did the first two days, I had a good shot to win.” Aylwin made three birdies in the final round to post a 36-35. “My irons were really working for me,” said Aylwin. “I only missed four greens in regulation.” On the 18th hole, Aylwin 2-putted from 30 feet for par to secure the title by one stroke. “I didn’t know where I stood so I felt no pressure,” said Aylwin. “It would have been a little tougher putt if I would have known.” Aylwin, a Florida Junior Tour member, qualified for the US Amateur Public Links Championship and finished second recently in the Volusia County Amateur. Now with one State Championship, Aylwin is looking forward to playing in the Florida State Amateur Match Play Championship at Sawgrass Country Club next week.

Lance Gillett, from Cocoa Beach, placed second one stroke back from Aylwin with a tournament total of 9-under par 210. Gillett recorded a 68-72-70 for the three rounds. Thomas Murray, from Orange Park, claimed third place with a pair of 70’s the first two rounds and finishing the Championship with a 71.

The Public Links Championship is open to bona fide public course players who are not members of a private club and also do not have a handicap index any higher than 6.4. Competitors played 18 holes of stroke play on each of the three days.

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