Former resident wins golf tourney
Published 12:03 pm Monday, October 13, 2008
By By Adam Robinson – Sports Editor
When Ashleigh Ryals first began practicing golf with her dad, she didn't know what she was getting herself in to.
Now, five and a half years later, Ryals is playing among the best and winning.
Just a couple weeks ago, Ryals won the Fellowship of Christian Athletes Golf Classic and her team at Gulf Breeze High School in Florida took the team title.
Ryals, who lived in Brewton until she was in the first grade, moved to Gulf Breeze at the beginning of her first grade year.
Ashleigh is the daughter of Gary and Rhonda Ryals of Gulf Breeze and is the granddaughter of Florine Theris of Brewton and of Bobby and Sarah Austin, formerly of Brewton.
She is also the niece of Tommy and Bobbie Ryals of Brewton.
While Ryals is just in her junior year of high school at Gulf Breeze, she already has plans for when she graduates.
“My dream is to play golf at an SEC college,” Ryals said. “That is the main goal I am focusing on right now.”
Ryals' mom, Rhonda Ryals, said she and her family are proud of Ashleigh.
“We couldn't be prouder and are thrilled that she is doing well,” Rhonda said. “Ashleigh is very dedicated and practices every day. We are happy that her efforts are paying off.”
While some of the attention is focused on Ashleigh and her individual play, Ashleigh gives the credit to her team.