WILMINGTON, N.C. (June 27, 2025) – Ellie Hildreth of Wrightsville Beach, N.C., emerged victorious at the 29th North Carolina Junior Girls’ Championship, firing a final-round 68 to finish at 1-over 217 total for the week and claim the title at Pine Valley Country Club in Wilmington, N.C.

Hildreth entered the final round five shots off the lead but delivered a lights-out performance when it mattered most. With a tournament low score and five birdies on the card, she climbed five spots up the leaderboard to earn her first CGA championship.

“I knew I had a good chance if I got off to a good start—just had to make as many birdies as possible,” Hildreth said about heading into the final day. “That was kind of the mindset: if I could do it, then great. But if not, there are always other opportunities.”

Hildreth posted rounds of 75-74-68 to complete the comeback, crediting improved ball-striking and putting in the final round as key to her success.

“I hit a lot of really good approach shots and gave myself a lot of chances,” she said. “I made some good putts, and that really helped.”

Despite the win, the path to the title wasn’t without obstacles. Hildreth acknowledged struggles early in the week, particularly with her short game.

“The first two days I wasn't really on my A-game, so it was a little bit of a struggle to get the ball in the hole here and there,” she said. “My chipping wasn’t great, but I managed to get it done.”

The tournament week was marked by extreme summer heat, adding another layer of difficulty for the field.

“It was extremely hot,” Hildreth noted. “I just hydrated like crazy and ate. I think I went through like four bottles of water out there.”

Sanaa Carter of Jacksonville, N.C., showed tremendous grit throughout the championship, holding a share of the lead heading into the final hole. Carter, who improved each round with scores of 74-73-72, finished in second after a tough double bogey on 18 left her two shots behind Hildreth at 3-over 219.

Gracie Song of Waxhaw, N.C., also remained a strong presence at the top of the leaderboard throughout the event. She led after Round 2 and closed with a 75 to finish in third at 3-over 219 tied with Carter but falling to third via a scorecard playoff.

Amelia Santiago of Holly Springs, N.C., had one of the most notable climbs on the final day. Her bogey-free 2-under 70 vaulted her six spots up the board to secure a solo fifth-place finish.

The Carolinas Golf Association extends sincere thanks to Pine Valley Country Club for its gracious hospitality and excellent course conditions. A special thank you to General Manager Josh Singleton, Golf Course Superintendent Shaun Irish, and Head Golf Professional Joe Casson for their dedication and support. Their added touches—including cold towels and extra hydration stations—were greatly appreciated by players and families alike during one of the hottest weeks of the summer.