AUGUSTA, Ga. – Emilio, Maria Jose Marin’s 10-year-old brother, proudly donned a Masters backpack nearly as big as he was during Saturday’s final round at Augusta National.
“The trophy will fit in here,” Emilio confidently stated as they approached the second nine holes, sure that his sister would deliver.
As Marin, an upbeat 19-year-old from Cali, Colombia, neared the 18th green with the Augusta National Women’s Amateur title almost secured, Annika Sorenstam, adorned in a green jacket, invited Emilio to the front row. Soon, he was among a crowd of cheering supporters, including his parents, Jose and Lorena, coaches Jorge and Hernan, and numerous friends from Colombia who shared their week’s adventures with the Marins. The group also included notable figures like three-time PGA Tour winner Nico Echavarria, last year’s champion Carla Bernat Escuder, and Maria Fassi, Marin’s mentor and the first ANWA runner-up seven years prior.
Fassi, a frequent practice partner at Blessings Golf Club in Fayetteville, Arkansas, arrived unexpectedly the night before and was in awe of Marin’s focus under pressure. “She’s like a racehorse with blinders on,” Fassi remarked.
On Saturday, Marin started her round in the second pairing, trailing young star Asterisk Talley by a shot. By the time she reached the 14th tee, she led Talley by five strokes and was four shots ahead of the next competitor. Marin’s impressive 4-under 68 propelled her to a total of 14 under, finishing four strokes clear of runner-up Andrea Revuelta. Marin expressed her pride, stating, “Winning at this place is an unmatched feeling.”
Many players have noted that winning at Augusta National holds more prestige than an LPGA victory. Oregon coach Derek Radley, who caddied for his wife on tour, called the ANWA “the biggest event, pro or amateur, ever.” This impact was evident, as Talley, also highly regarded, faced pressure and nerves following her excellent start on the course.
As the final round progressed, Marin’s gameplay exhibited both skill and resilience. Despite the challenges faced by her competitors, particularly Talley who struggled on a difficult hole, Marin maintained her composure and ultimately secured her victory, fulfilling a dream she has held since witnessing past champions. The day concluded with an emotional embrace among family as they celebrated together, marking a triumphant milestone in Marin’s burgeoning golf career.
