(Atlantic) Consistency, composure, and timely performances defined Hudson McLaren’s high school golf career at Atlantic, culminating in a strong senior season.
Hudson McLaren had his sights on Iowa Western Community College; however, the team was full.
In preparing for fall golf, McLaren admits he must get away from his baseball swing.
McLaren’s high school coach, Kendra Henningsen, brings with her a lot of knowledge from playing college golf at Iowa State, followed by a stint at the professional level. He expects to build off that under Grand View University Head Coach Chris Winkel, who has built the Viking men’s golf team into one of the top NAIA programs, with multiple national tournament appearances and a NAIA Men’s Golf National Championship title in 2017.
McLaren a three-time state qualifier. made his mark as a sophomore in 2024 when he qualified individually for the Iowa Class 3A State Tournament. Playing on his home course in the district tournament, he fired a solid 1-under-par 70 to earn a trip to state. Competing against Iowa’s best, McLaren posted rounds of 78 and 77 for a 36-hole total of 155 (+11), finishing tied for 62nd in Class 3A.
His junior season brought another signature moment. McLaren captured medalist honors at the Trojan Invitational, shooting a 1-over-par 70 before winning in a playoff. The team also qualified for the State Golf Tournament.
As a senior in 2026, McLaren once again delivered when it mattered most. At the Class 3A district tournament, he shot a 2-over-par 71 and secured Atlantic’s return to the state tournament with a clutch par on the final hole. His leadership and steady play helped propel the Trojans onto the state’s biggest stage.
McLaren saved his best state tournament performance for his final high school event. He led Atlantic with rounds of 77 and 76 for a 153 (+9), tying for 19th individually in Class 3A. His efforts helped the Trojans earn a fourth-place team finish, one of the program’s top accomplishments in recent years.
