Sophie Lauture & Alex Martin (CGA Photo)

Starting the final round three shots behind leader Cameron Hardison of Greenville, N.C., Martin posted a composed second-round 73 to force the playoff. Hardison, who opened with a 3-under-par 69 featuring two eagles, faltered on the final day, creating the opportunity for Martin.

“This win means a lot to me,” Martin told the Carolina Golf Association. “I’ve been close before, so to finally come out on top feels incredible.”

Martin’s familiarity with Pinewild was a key factor in his success. He began his collegiate career at Sandhills Community College (SCC) before transferring to Appalachian State University. His former coach, Gus Ulrich, serves as the Director of Instruction at Pinewild and Head Men’s Golf Coach at SCC.

“Playing here felt almost like home,” Martin told the Carolina Golf Association. “Coach Ulrich was instrumental in my development, and knowing the course as well as I do definitely helped.”

Peter Bowie of Asheville, N.C., and John Logan of Wilmington, N.C., tied for third at 2-over-par 146.

In the women's division, Sophie Lauture captured her second CGA title with a steady performance, finishing at 1-over-par 145 to win by five strokes. The UNC Greensboro freshman opened with a 70 and followed with a 75.

Lauture’s final round featured three birdies and a bogey on the front nine for a 2-under-par 34. A bogey on the 14th hole was her only slip on the back nine as she closed with a 1-under-par 71.

“I just focused on staying in the moment and enjoying the round,” Lauture told the Carolina Golf Association. “I didn’t think much about the leaderboard, which helped me stay relaxed.”

Mia Gray of Conway, S.C., and Ava Romfo of Charleston, S.C., tied for second at 6-over-par 150. Gray shot a 70 in the first round but struggled with an 80 in the second, while Romfo’s steady 75-75 rounds earned her a share of second place.