On April 9, The Columbus High Blue Devils won the 41st Larry Gaither Hardaway Invitational at Bull Creek; this makes for Columbus’ third win in four years, which is a big deal considering the teams who play in the series. The Hardaway Invitational attracts some of the best golfers—ever.
Over the course of the last 40 years, at least six winners have gone on to play the PGA Tour including Chris Kirk, Brian Harman, and Paul Claxton. The competition is considered one of the premier high school golf tournaments in the Southeast, and the prestige of the invitational grows more every year.
It is rumored that more teams will enter the competition next year as the invitational regains its popularity. With Columbus’ winning streak, it is likely they will enter the tournament as favorites amongst fans next year. As the competition continues to grow, the quality of teams coming in will likely evolve, making it just that much harder to come out on top. In years past, up to 50 teams have competed, and while only 23 teams competed this year, the growing popularity of high school golf will likely result in an increase of the number of teams that enter. For Columbus, this means the work must continue if they plan to snag another title, and for the teams who plan on entering in the future, preparation is key—it’ll only get harder from here.
Columbus was led by Nolan Miller, who shot 69-73 for a 2-under 142, making him second to Chandler Dixon of Carrolton in the medalist competition. Miller is likely to come back better with another year of practice under his belt, while Chandler Dixon will likely arrive at next year’s invitational ready to maintain his position as number one. The 42nd annual invitational should be an interesting one with more teams playing and Columbus returning with back-to-back wins.
South Georgia
Columbus High School
Columbus, GA
Columbus High Wins Hardaway Invitational for Third Time In Four Years
Photo Courtesy of Columbus High Golf
By Njeri Mathis
