CSGA Publications: 2016 CSGA Annual Magazine | Page 68

E ach year the CSGA recognizes the Club Champions of its more than 175 member clubs; and while each champion has their own unique story, that of Gianna Papa of Connecticut National Golf Club stands apart from the rest. At just nine years of age, Gianna captured her first Women’s Club Championship at Connecticut National this summer with scores of 81-82 in the two day event. Papa, who was a finalist at the Drive Chip and Putt National Championship at Augusta National in April, is not only the youngest club champion in Connecticut National history, but also the youngest competitor in Connecticut Women’s Amateur history. Her seven stroke victory in this year’s Women’s Club Championship was cemented by a six foot putt on the final hole. “I was very nervous over that putt… It was very special to win, and I had a lot of fun playing with the other members.” Gianna’s victory deservingly earned her the title of Women’s Club Champion, but it also earned her a reserved parking spot for the year. For someone who cannot drive yet, Gianna may have to start riding her bike more often, “I’m going to have to let my mom park her car in my spot.” 68 / CONNECTICUT STATE GOLF ASSOCIATION / 2016 ANNUAL