The penultimate event of the Triple A World Junior Golf Series of the 25/26 season: the Triple A European Open, got underway at the prestigious San Roque Club, with players battling through challenging windy conditions on Day 1.

 

U21 Boys – Joel Bracegirdle on Top

Joel Bracegirdle leads the way after an outstanding level-par 72, making five birdies — the most of any player on the day — and standing as the only competitor in the entire field to finish at par. In demanding conditions, his composure separated him from the pack and set the benchmark heading into Day 2.

Just one shot behind, Antoni Hawkins and Veikko Hiltunen sit tied for second on 73 (+1). Hawkins produced four birdies and a superb 34 (-2) on the back nine — the joint-best back nine in the entire field alongside Ebba Mejer and Elias Almeiling. 

While Hiltunen added three birdies of his own in a steady and impressive round. With only a single stroke separating the top three, the boys’ division is perfectly poised for a thrilling second day.

Completing the top 10:

  • T4 Erik Groth – 74 (+2)
  • T4 Nathaniel Lacy – 74 (+2)
  • T4 Carl Landh – 74 (+2)
  • 7 Ernie Elford – 75 (+3)
  • T8 Thaddeus Huainigg – 76 (+4)
  • T8 Oliver Camargo Jones – 76 (+4)
  • 10 Ewan Widor – 78 (+6)

Special mention:
A fantastic moment on Hole 14 saw both Ernie Elford and Franciszek Moczarksi produce spectacular eagles, lighting up the course despite the tough winds.

 

U21 Girls – Olivia Costello Leads

Olivia Costello secures the lead after carding a 76 (+4), highlighted by a superb eagle on Hole 17 along with a birdie in her round.

Close behind is Ebba Mejer on 77 (+5), who fired four birdies and an exceptional 34 (-2) back nine — the joint-best back nine score in the field alongside Antoni Hawkins and Elias Almeling. 

Gemma McMeekin sits third on 81 (+9), recording three birdies in her round to stay firmly in contention. With momentum building and confidence growing, the girls’ leaderboard promises plenty of movement as the competition intensifies on Day 2.

Completing the top 5:

  • 4 Maria Moczarska – 82 (+10)
  • T5 Franziska-Rufina Hergel – 83 (+11)
  • T5 Sophie Jordan – 83 (+11)
  • T5 Laetitia Vandeplas – 83 (+11)
  • T5 Maria Khristenko – 83 (+11)

Click HERE to view Day 1 gallery.

Day 2 promises more drama as the leaders look to extend their advantage and the chasing pack prepare to make their move at San Roque.