National golfer Brayden Lee, 17, wins boys’ individual title at Asia Junior Team C’ships
Brayden Tan Shines at Asia Junior Team Championships, Eyes Bigger Tournaments
Brayden Tan’s hard work and perseverance paid off in a big way, as he claimed victory at the Asia Junior Team Championships on September 11. Tan delivered a stellar performance, carding a two-under 70 on the final day at Gunsun Golf Club in South Korea, finishing with a six-under total of 210.
His consistent play across all three rounds, including two earlier rounds of 70, helped him secure a two-shot win over Thailand’s Thanawin Lee, earning him the individual title.
Reflecting on his recent performances, Tan, a student at Anglo-Chinese School (Independent), shared, “I had a tough run in previous tournaments, but I’m just happy I’ve been able to focus on improving. My game is getting back to where it was, maybe even better.”
Tan’s impressive score also contributed to Singapore’s success in the boys’ team event, where he, alongside teammates Troy Storm and Aaron Wee, helped the team clinch a bronze medal with a combined score of 436. South Korea emerged as the team champions with 423, followed by Thailand at 431.
In the girls’ competition, the team of Chen Xing Tong, Aamiya Koul, and Passion Hsu finished fourth with a total of 455. Thailand claimed the top spot, followed by South Korea and Japan.
Despite missing out on a spot at the 2025 Junior World Team Championship – reserved for the winning team – Tan remained positive about his individual success. He attributed part of his growth to the International Baccalaureate programme at his school, which gives student-athletes like him the flexibility to balance studies and sports over three years. He also credited his promotion from the development squad earlier this year, which has provided him with greater financial and coaching support from the Singapore Golf Association (SGA).
Tan’s recent success has boosted his confidence ahead of upcoming major events, including the Asia Pacific Amateur Championship in Japan from October 3-6 and the Nomura Cup in Vietnam from October 15-18.
“Winning at the Asian Junior Championships, which featured stronger competition, gives me a sense of direction as I prepare for bigger events,” Tan said. “I feel like these experiences will help me put up a good fight in the future.”
SGA’s assistant national coach, Joshua Shou, praised Tan’s performance, highlighting his composure under pressure. “Brayden showed remarkable maturity today,” Shou noted. “His approach on the par-five 16th led to an eagle, giving him a one-shot lead, which he extended with a birdie on the last hole. His mental strength will be invaluable as he heads into more major tournaments this year and next.”
With his sights set on eventually playing in elite competitions like the DP World Tour, PGA Tour, or LIV Golf, Tan is eager to build on his recent triumph. “This tournament has given me a good gauge of what to expect in bigger events,” he said. “I’m excited for what’s next.”