IOA Golf Classic Round 1

Rookie sensation Gianna Clemente and Australia's Jennifer Elliott surged to the top of the leaderboard during the opening round of the 2026 IOA Golf Classic, both carding brilliant 5-under 66s. Clemente, the 17-year-old phenom, dazzled the gallery with a bogey-free performance, highlighted by back-to-back birdies on the 12th and 13th.

Elliott matched her pace with a clinical display of iron play, successfully navigating the tricky afternoon winds that historically make Alaqua a much tougher test. Sitting just one stroke back is a group of four players at 4-under, including Sarah Edwards and Kenzie Wright, who both capitalized on early morning conditions.

The round featured several charges from the international contingent, with Finland’s Kiira Riihijarvi staying within striking distance. Notably, the firm conditions saw many of the favorites struggle with distance control, but Clemente and Elliott's ability to master the green speeds has set a high bar for Saturday's second round as the field battles for a spot in the top 60 and ties.