A Tadd about Fujikawa and the Thunderbird

by Mulligan Stu on May 28, 2007 9:40 AM EDT

Tadd Fujikawa won't be heading back to the U.S. Open this year. Playing a sectional qualifier in Japan, the 16-year-old - who created a sensation last year when he became the youngest-ever qualifier at the Open, then earlier this year at the PGA Tour Sony Open - shot 78-75---153 (9-over) to fall well short.

There had been earlier reports that Fujikawa would be in Phoenix this week for the AJGA's Thunderbird tournament, one of the biggest events for juniors. Funny thing is, Fujikawa has created more of a buzz in his appearances at professional tournaments than he has in junior events!

The Thunderbird's final round takes place today, and it's a good place to get an early look at some of the stars of tomorrow.

In the girls division, 18-year-old Esther Choe - who announced a few weeks ago she would pass up college to turn pro - is, surprisingly, taking a whuppin'. She's tied for 13th, nine strokes behind.

The leader after two rounds is 15-year-old Kimberly Kim, the reigning U.S. Women's Amateur champion (although our own Tiffany Joh stomped her in the Publinx final) who finished 11th two weeks ago in a tournament on the Korean LPGA Tour.

Among the other girls at the Thunderbird to watch for over the next decade are Stephanie Kono, Vicky Hurst, Taylore Karle, the Lendl sisters (Marika and Isabelle), Jane Rah and Jenny Shin.

On the boys side, Arnond Vongvanij of Florida is the leader after two rounds. Philip Francis and Richard Lee are two of the most promising players. Kevin Tway (son of Bob Tway) and Cody Gribble are two more. And even if Cody Gribble wasn't in the tournament, I'd mention him. Because I just like saying "Cody Gribble."