Ka’ahanui named AZ Central Female Athlete of the Week

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Marcela Reynas, Reporter

Senior Taryn Ka’ahanui captured the All- City Golf Tournament on Sept. 8-10. Ka’ahanui has been trying to get this win since freshman year.

“It’s very exciting that I finally accomplished it after all these years. It feels great to accomplish a goal that I set myself since freshman year,”  Ka’ahanui said.

The tournament occurred over three days and three golf courses:  Ken McDonald, Rolling Hills, and Awhatukee Country Club.  Ka’ahanui took the lead on day 2, and maintained the lead by shooting two birdies on the final day to clinch the title.

“She played an amazing round,” golf coach Karen Crane said.  “She pulled a back muscle at the beginning of the tournament, and toughed it out to capture the win.  I couldn’t be more proud.”

In addition to winning the All-City title, Kaahanui was named AZ Central Sports Female Athlete of the Week on Sun., Sept. 20.  She was featured in the Sunday paper.

This is also a big accomplishment for the girl’s golf team as well. It’s been years since McClintock girl’s golf has had an All-City Champion.

“It was so exciting having her do so well,” Crane said.  “As a representative of our school, we couldn’t have a better role model.”

Ka’ahanui has sought this title since her freshman year.  Last year, she tied for the win, but lost in a tiebreaker ruling.  That made this year’s win even more special.

“My parents [were my motivation], as well as knowing that I would bring pride to the school,” she said.

Ka’ahanui continued playing through the pain by focusing on other things.

“I did stretched before, I ate goldfishes and pretzels and through the round I didn’t swing as hard as I did before and I just played slower than usual and it worked,” Ka’ahanui said.

Ka’ahanui will be honored at an All-City banquet to be held in January