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By Connor Barry

HICKORY, N.C. (June 25, 2026) – Noah Fry of Waxhaw, N.C., captured the 2026 North Carolina Junior Boys' Championship after defeating Tanner Jones of Franklin, N.C., on the first playoff hole Friday afternoon.

Fry fired a tournament-low 7-under-par 65 in the final round to finish at 8-under-par 208 (68-75-65). Jones matched Fry at 208 after closing with a birdie on the 72nd hole to force a playoff, but Fry prevailed with a two-putt bogey on the first extra hole to claim the Harry Welch Trophy.

Fry rebounded from a second-round 75 by entering the final round with a simple mindset.

"Yesterday, I was kind of down in the dumps. Nothing felt like it was going my way, so I just came out today feeling like I had nothing to lose."

That mentality carried Fry to the biggest victory of his junior career.

"I gave it my all and proved to myself that I was still the player I thought I was."

The final round featured several low scores, including Fry's tournament-best 65. Walker Millican of Greensboro, N.C., posted a 67, while Drew Mercer of Cramerton, N.C., Sam Terry of Thomasville, N.C., James Fisher of Matthews, N.C., and Isaiah Adel of Raleigh, N.C., each carded 68. More accessible hole locations and lighter winds led to lower scores than in the opening two rounds.

With the victory, Fry also earned an exemption into the U.S. Junior Amateur Championship at Saucon Valley Country Club in Bethlehem, Pa.

"That feels really good. I mean, I had no idea I even had a chance at that, so coming away with that feels amazing."

The Carolinas Golf Association extends its appreciation to the staff and membership of Catawba Country Club for their support and hospitality throughout the week. Special thanks go to General Manager Stephen Busic, Head Golf Professional Jason Akel, Director of Agronomy Robert B. Arrington, Superintendent Nathan Evans and the entire team for their efforts in hosting this year's championship.