It didn’t take long for Judson Smith to find his passion. The 8-year-old Walden Lake Elementary student has been hitting golf balls since he was 3, but last fall, he decided to take up playing golf full-time, focusing on playing tournaments. He placed first in the 8-and-under division at Champions Gate earlier this summer and regularly places in the top five at tournaments. He will compete in the Orange County National this weekend.
What made you want to focus on golf?
I like golf, because I’m a big fan of Tiger Woods, and I have the bracelet he wears on Sundays. I want to be like him and be a professional golfer when I grow up.
What do you like about golf?
I like all parts of it. The main part that I like is traveling and seeing new golf courses and getting to play them.
What part of the game do you like the most?
I like driving, because I’m really good with a driver.
What was it like to win at Champions Gate?
It was pretty fun getting first place and winning my very first tournament.
Did you know that you had won toward the end of the tournament or did you not know until after?
I didn’t know until after, because I didn’t know the other kids’ scores and didn’t know my total score. I was kind of surprised I was first.
Do you remember what you shot?
A 59 and a 51
Do you watch a lot of pro golf?
I watch some of the tournaments with my dad.
What’s one of your favorite moments from watching golf?
I got to go see Tiger live in Orlando (Arnold Palmer Invitational).
Do you have any other pro golfer that you like watching?
The Golf Boys. I like watching their videos online. Also, I got Ricky Fowler’s autograph on my hat.
When did you get that?
At the tournament we went to. After his tee shot, there was thunder and lightning close, so they stopped playing. That’s when I got his autograph.
Did you play other sports before golf?
I played baseball and football for the Plant City Dolphins.
What positions did you play in baseball?
Third, right field and second. One time, I played pitcher.
What about football?
I played two guys away from the hiker (offensive line).
Your little brother, Bronson, 3, likes golf, as well. What are some tips you’ve shared with him?
I’ve been showing him how to hit the ball farther and how to make some long putts.