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Murata Crowned Champion at IJGA × NXXT College Pathway Series Finale


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Howey-in-the-Hills, FL – August 2025 — The IJGA × NXXT College Pathway Series came to a thrilling close with its WAGR-ranked championship finale at Bishops Gate Golf Club. Played on a demanding par-73 layout, the event tested every facet of junior players’ games across 54 holes over two days, including a grueling 27-hole stretch on the final day that mirrored the intensity of NCAA tournament play.

Global Field, Unified Leaderboard

The innovative format brought together a co-ed, unified field, where boys and girls competed on the same leaderboard for the overall title. The championship showcased remarkable depth of talent, with competitors from Japan, Mexico, Kenya, Turkey, Taiwan, Korea, China, and the United States — underscoring the truly international caliber of the field.

Leading the way was Ryo Murata (Nagano, Japan, Class of 2026), who delivered steady rounds of 71–74–74 to claim the overall title at 219 (+3). Just one shot behind, Paloma Ibarra Ambia (Saltillo, Mexico, Class of 2026) surged on the final day with a brilliant 70 to finish at 220 (+4), earning runner-up honors and distinction as the top female performer. Rounding out the top three were Ryo Arakawa (Chiba, Japan, Class of 2029) and Misaki Sano (Tokyo, Japan, Class of 2030), tied at 225 (+9).

NCAA Coaches in Attendance

The event also attracted NCAA coaches scouting the next wave of collegiate talent, including:

  • Dalton Stevens, Associate Head Coach, University of Georgia Women’s Golf

  • Evan Thompson, Assistant Coach, University of Alabama at Birmingham Men’s Golf

  • Ellen Secor, Assistant Coach, University of Central Florida Women’s Golf

Their presence further reinforced the platform’s value — giving juniors direct visibility to top college programs while testing their skills under championship conditions.

Preparing the Next Generation

“This championship embodied exactly what we set out to achieve with the IJGA × NXXT College Pathway Series,” said Stuart McKinnon, CEO of NXXT Golf. “A truly international field, NCAA coaches on site, and a demanding format that pushes athletes to prepare for the realities of collegiate golf. These players are the next generation of stars, and we are proud to help provide the stage for their growth.”

About IJGA

The International Junior Golf Academy (IJGA), based at Bishops Gate Golf Club in Florida, is the world’s premier full-time junior golf boarding academy. IJGA combines elite coaching, academic integration, and a near-100% college placement rate to prepare student-athletes for collegiate and professional success. With world-class facilities, an experienced staff, and strong collegiate networks, IJGA remains a global leader in junior golf development.


Learn more: www.ijga.com

About NXXT Golf

NXXT Golf is redefining competitive golf through professional and junior platforms built on equity, elite performance, and innovation. With nationally recognized tours — including the NXXT Women’s Pro Tour, NXXTGen Junior Girls Tour, and the groundbreaking co-ed Battle of the Sexes Series — NXXT is changing how golf is played, promoted, and experienced. The organization also operates a 501(c)(3) foundation dedicated to supporting female and junior golfers through scholarships, mentorship, and developmental opportunities.



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