Final Recap: James Earle Claims Dixie Amateur Title at Eagle Trace
James Earle closed out a composed and consistent week at Eagle Trace Golf Club to win the 2025 Dixie Amateur, finishing at 10-under par and earning one of the most respected titles in amateur golf.
The Jupiter, Florida native carded a final-round 68 to hold off a strong field, completing rounds of 75-68-67-68 for a four-day total of 278. After opening with a modest first round, Earle steadily climbed the leaderboard with three consecutive rounds in the 60s, separating himself with disciplined ball-striking and timely scoring over the final 54 holes.
Will Block of Plantation, Florida finished runner-up at 8-under par after closing with a 68 to post 280. A three-way tie for third at 5-under included Aarav Shah of Australia, Mason Deal of Ohio, and BJ Boyce of North Carolina, each finishing at 283 after four demanding rounds.
The final round saw movement throughout the leaderboard, but Earle remained steady as challengers attempted to close the gap. His ability to limit mistakes and convert scoring chances on Eagle Trace’s demanding par-72 layout proved decisive.
With a championship resume that now includes a victory at one of Florida’s most historic amateur events, Earle adds his name to a distinguished list of Dixie Amateur champions and caps off a strong close to the competitive season.
The Dixie Amateur once again delivered a deep, competitive field and four days of high-level amateur golf, reinforcing its place as one of the premier winter championships on the amateur calendar.
A Championship Steeped in History
First played in 1924, the Dixie Amateur is one of Florida’s oldest and most respected amateur championships. Originally contested at the old Miami Country Club, the event has evolved alongside the growth of golf in South Florida, becoming a proving ground for players destined for success at the highest levels.
Past champions include Doug Ford, Lanny Wadkins, Andy Bean, Bruce Fleisher, Nolan Henke, and Jesper Parnevik, while the women’s division has crowned stars such as Meaghan Francella and Lexi Thompson.
Since moving to a December date in 1990, the Dixie has become a premier offseason test for college players, offering a rare 72-hole championship against a nationally competitive field.
The Test: Eagle Trace Golf Club
Eagle Trace once again serves as host, providing a championship-caliber setup that rewards patience, disciplined ball-striking, and strong course management.
The par-72 layout features water on multiple holes, demanding approach shots, and greens that place a premium on positioning rather than raw aggression. Historically, winning scores hover in the high single digits to low teens under par, with consistency proving more valuable than streaky play.
Field & Format
The Dixie Amateur is a 72-hole stroke play championship, with a 54-hole cut to the low 66 players and ties. The field is limited to 108 competitors, comprised of past champions, committee invitees, and qualifiers from major amateur championships.
With four rounds scheduled, players will need both endurance and composure to contend through the weekend.
Storylines to Watch:
- Can a college standout separate early? December Dixies often see collegiate players take advantage of tournament reps during winter break.
- Experience vs. youth: Mid-amateurs with course knowledge frequently contend, setting up compelling battles against younger players.
- Managing the cut: Historically, the third round at Eagle Trace produces movement both at the top and around the cutline.
Looking Ahead
With first-round scores set to roll in throughout the day, the 2025 Dixie Amateur promises another week of high-level amateur golf at one of Florida’s most reliable championship venues.
AmateurGolf.com will provide round-by-round updates, leaderboard movement, and full results coverage throughout the championship.
Tournament: 2025 Dixie Amateur
Dates: December 16–19, 2025
Venue: Eagle Trace Golf Club – Coral Springs, Florida
Format: 72-hole stroke play (54-hole cut)
Stay tuned to AmateurGolf.com for complete coverage.