Honolulu, HI
A new champion has been crowned at the 117th Annual Manoa Cup Tournament, as Ava Cepeda defeated Samantha Monroe to capture one of Hawaiʻi's most prestigious amateur golf titles.
The Women's Championship Match took place Saturday morning at Oʻahu Country Club, where two of Hawaiʻi's top amateur golfers battled for the coveted title. Cepeda, coming off an impressive freshman season at the University of New Mexico, faced Monroe, who recently completed her junior year at Punahou School. The championship featured two rising stars of Hawaiʻi golf, with both players showcasing the talent and composure that have made them among the state's best.
The match remained competitive through the opening holes, with neither player giving much ground. As the round progressed, however, Cepeda found another gear, capitalizing on key opportunities and playing steady, confident golf down the stretch. She eventually closed out the match with a convincing 5-and-4 victory, earning her first Manoa Cup championship.
The win is especially meaningful for Cepeda, who finished as the tournament runner-up just one year ago. This time, she completed the journey to the top, adding another milestone to what has already been a remarkable season.
With the victory, Cepeda also makes Hawaiʻi golf history, becoming the first woman to win both the Hawaiʻi State Amateur Championship and the Manoa Cup in the same season. The accomplishment further solidifies her place among the state's elite amateur golfers and adds another impressive chapter to an already outstanding year.
Congratulations to Ava Cepeda on an incredible achievement, and congratulations to Samantha Monroe and all of the competitors who made this year's Women's Manoa Cup another memorable championship.
Pictures taken by: Kennedy Velasco - @kennnchapo
