Athlete of the Week: Karson Kindelt wins Ancil Hoffman First Tee Tournament

Granite Bay High's Karson Kindelt recently finished his sophomore golf season with the Grizzlies where his team made it all the way to the NorCal Regional Tournament in May. Kindelt was one of the top golfers for the Grizzlies and tied for third at the Sac-Joaquin Section Masters Tournament with an even-par round of 71 at Elkhorn Golf Club in Stockton. He has continued to play in numerous tournaments since his high school season ended and tied for first on June 28 at the First Tee's Ancil Hoffman Junior Tournament. Kindelt also competed in the Junior Golf Association of Northern California (JGANC) Tournament last week at The Reserve at Spanos Park, finishing second at four-under-par. Gold Country Media asked Kindelt some questions and his answers follow. What has been working so well with your game as of late? Kindelt: "I've been driving the ball really well and putting myself in position to score well." How long have you been playing golf competitively and who is your biggest motivation? Kindelt: "I've been playing golf competitively for around four years and my biggest motivation is my dad." You played for Granite Bay High last season and made it all the way to the NorCal Tournament. How special was the playoff run your team made and what are your biggest goals for next season? Kindelt: "Making it to NorCal's last year as a team was a great experience but next year, the goal is definitely to make it to states." Do sports run in your family? If so, who has played and at what levels? Kindelt: "My father and I used to race motocross and ski on a regular basis so we have always tended to be an athletic family." Have you ever been involved in other sports? Kindelt: "Yes, racing motocross and being a part of the Palisades Tahoe ski team." What are your biggest strengths as a golfer? Kindelt: "Driving the ball and wedge play are usually my strengths." Do you have a favorite round you've played or a favorite memory from your golf career up to this point? Kindelt: "Making my first hole in one while playing with my dad at Lahontan Golf Club was a great experience that I'll never forget." What has been your favorite class in high school thus far and why? Kindelt: "Sports and entertainment marketing because we learned how to make financial decisions and the processes to starting a business." Who is your favorite musical artist/band? Kindelt: "Drake." Favorite restaurant and favorite food? Kindelt: "Mikuni's and my favorite food is sushi." Outside of school and playing golf, what do you like to do in your free time? Kindelt: "I enjoy working out and playing video games." Is there a particular job you would like to have someday? Kindelt: "Being a professional golfer would be the dream goal but starting a business would be something I would be very interested in." If you had a piece of advice for other local athletes, what would you tell them? Kindelt: "As a golfer, I would say that there are a lot of disappointing moments but you have to stay positive and keep working hard."