Locust Valley Student Crowned Best Boys Golfer In New York State

LOCUST VALLEY, NY — Locust Valley High School's Thomas Finn took home first place in the New York State Public High School Boys Golf Championship on Monday.

The tournament returned for the first time since COVID-19 canceled both the 2019 and 2020 seasons. Elmira's Mark Twain Golf Course initially won the bid to host back in 2020. But because of the pandemic, the tournament's return was delayed until this year.

The opening round began at 9 a.m. Sunday and the closing round kicked off around 7:30 a.m. on Monday.

In total, 99 players from across the state competed in the tournament. They were divided into 11 sections, with Finn representing Locust Valley's Section VIII.

The high school senior clinched the state's championship title with a 6-under 138 that included a 66 in the first round and a 72 in the second. CJ. Merritt, of Plainview-Old Bethpage JFK, came in second, firing 2-under 142.

As a team, Section VIII also won first place, with a top score of 1,037.

"It feels great," said Finn, when asked about his win on Monday. "Battled it out today with an even-par — really kept it together. I was really pleased with the way I played yesterday. I shot six under with seven birdies from an angle. It feels great to maintain my lead and win. So, yeah, I'm really pumped."

As evident by this final tournament, Finn has had a successful athletic career while on Locust Valley's boys golf team. He won the All-County Championship in 2021 and 2022, making him an All-County athlete.

Finn's coach, Jule Feltman, has watched him play throughout the years and shared her thoughts on his progress.

"Thomas has been on the team since seventh grade, so it has been my pleasure to watch him grow and develop as both a golfer and a young man," she said. "I am very happy for him! He is an exceptionally hard worker and has earned this accolade."