Rubenstein, Vienneau share lead after First Round of 26th Veritex Bank Byron Nelson Junior Championship
DALLAS — Jeffrey Rubenstein of Dallas and Michael Vienneau of Austin stormed into the spotlight after Round 1 of the 26th Veritex Bank Byron Nelson Junior Championship, each firing a bogey-free 4-under 66 to take a two-shot lead.
Eighty-four of the top junior golfers from Texas and surrounding states teed it up Tuesday at the storied Lakewood Country Club, facing swirling winds and firm conditions. But it was Rubenstein and Vienneau who emerged from the pack, showcasing precision and poise to set the pace after 18 holes.
“I hit it pretty good today,” said Rubenstein. “I kept myself in play on most holes and didn’t make a bogey all round.”
Starting on the back nine, Rubenstein picked up birdies at Nos. 13 and 16 before making the turn into intensifying winds. Despite gusts reaching up to 25 mph, he remained composed and capitalized with a closing birdie on No. 4.
“I just try to take it one shot at a time, be aggressive when I can, and try to flight some shots to keep them under the wind,” said the Dallas native.
Vienneau, a senior from Austin making his first appearance at the Byron Nelson Junior, handled the conditions with equal grit and control.
“I hit it solid, and on the back nine, I scrambled trying to get to the clubhouse,” he said. “The course is in great shape. You have to shape it both ways out here, which I like—it unlocks some creativity in your game.”
Chasing closely behind are Brooks Simmons of Dallas, Jaxon Bandelier of Austin, and Blake Brown of Cypress. Simmons, a University of Texas commit, finished tied for fifth in last year’s championship, while Bandelier—an Oklahoma State commit—placed T8 in 2022. Both are hungry to move up the leaderboard once again.
Just one stroke behind them, after rounds of 1-under 69, are Declan Dent of Grapevine, Aadi Parmar of Selma, and Mackey Beckett of Lakeway, each staying within striking distance in this highly competitive field.
The opening round began with mild morning weather in the mid-70s and light winds sweeping through the course. But by early afternoon, gusts climbed to 22–25 mph, adding an extra layer of challenge as players made the turn.
The toughest hole for Round One was No. 6 with zero birdies scored during Round One.
Round 2 begins Wednesday, June 4 at 8 a.m. Following the second round, the field will be cut to the low 30 players and ties for Thursday’s final round. For more information about the 26th Veritex Bank Byron Nelson Junior Championship, click here