Darina Betschart and Lewis MacFarlane delivered impressive performances at the 2026 Optimist Tournament of Champions in Florida over the weekend.

The pair secured impressive top-five finishes in their respective age divisions against international competition at the Las Colinas Mission Inn Resort and Club in Howey-in-the-Hills to do Bermuda proud.

Betschart, 15, competed in the girls 14-18 division, finishing an impressive fifth in a field of 29 competitors.

She opened the 36-hole tournament with a 1 over round of 72 before following up with a 74 on the second day. Her two-round total of 146, four over par, secured her place among the top five in a competitive field.

Reflecting on her performance, Betschart was pleased with her consistency while acknowledging that there were opportunities to score even better.

“I played quite well for competing in the 14-18 division and placing fifth overall,” she told The Royal Gazette.

“I left some shots out there but overall my game was strong and consistent. It's always such a privilege to represent Bermuda and be in contention. I met some great people and hopefully I will get to play again next year.”

Compatriot MacFarlane also enjoyed a successful weekend, finishing fourth in the Boys 11-13 division.

He opened with a round of 79 before producing an impressive six-shot improvement on Sunday, carding a 73 to finish with a two-day total of 152, 10 over par.

His strong final-round performance helped secure a well-deserved fourth-place finish.

“I feel like I played pretty solid, better in the second round, and I really enjoyed meeting some new people,” MacFarlane said.

“The course was not in the best condition, but it was quite short and it played to my strengths. Being able to have the opportunity to compete overseas is awesome, and it was a great experience.”