Wednesday 31st January 2007

New website for Angus County
Aileen Hunter of Angus County Ladies has revamped their website. It's address is www.angusladiesgolf.org

JORDAN’S BEEN A SILLY LAD, SAYS HIS DAD
Former British boys golf champion Jordan Findlay has been given a rollicking by his dad Iain in a transatlantic telephone call after the 18-year-old from Fraserburgh had to retire, feeling “desperately unwell,” before the end of the third round in the Ping Arizona Intercollegiate tournament.
“Jordan’s been a silly lad. He should never have started this 54-hole tournament. He had pneumonia while he was home over the Christmas holidays. But he insisted in going off on a short holiday with his pals to Tenerife where he spent most of the time in bed with sickness and diarrheoa. He lost a lot of weight, something like 1 1/2stone,” said Mr Findlay.
“I took him to Aberdeen Royal Infirmary before he returned to East Tennessee State University and the specialist’s advice was to rest as much as possible and not to pick up a golf club for several weeks until he built up his strength again.
FEELING ROTTEN
“But, even though he had been feeling rotten, Jordan decided that he owed it to the college coach to play in this the first tournament of the second half of the American college season.
“Jordan should have known he was just too weak, still too dehydrated to attempt to play tournament golf. He said to me on the phone last night after he had been taken from the course to hospital in Tucson for a check-up because he was feeling so bad, ‘This could ruin my whole year.’ I said to him: ‘It will ruin your year if you don’t listen to medical advice.’ ”
Starting with a quintuple bogey 9 at the par-4 first hole, Findlay was 26 over par for his first two rounds (an 87 and an 81). He was a further 12 over par for the 10 holes he completed in his third round before the East Tennessee State University head coach took him off the course and back to the clubhouse for his own good.
“I could hardly swing the club, I felt so weak,” said Jordan who helped Scotland to win the British boys' home internationals title at Lossiemouth last summer when he was also a member of the Scotland side in the European youths' team championship in Spain.

R&A Press Release
R&A GOLF COURSE COMMITTEE ISSUE TURFGRASS CLIMATE MAP
The R&A Golf Course Committee has launched a worldwide climate map, to provide guidance on grass species selection. The climate map can be viewed at The R&A’s best practice website, www.bestcourseforgolf.org
The interactive map shows the parts of the world where warm or cool season grasses are most appropriate and defines the Transition Zone where neither warm nor cool season species grow to their optimum potential.
The grasses used to establish a course often dictate its future sustainability and through time, with the correct management practices, grass composition can be influenced towards a mix of the more sustainable species. The map, which is linked to text describing the turfgrass species in detail, will help course developers, architects, turf managers and facility managers make an informed choice of the most sustainable grasses for their situation.
It has been developed in conjunction with Maplecroft, specialists in interactive mapping of complex environmental, social, economic and political issues.
Robert Webb, Chairman of The R&A Golf Course Committee, said, “We have made many improvements and enhancements to our best practice website since it was launched nearly three years ago, but this particular feature is particularly noteworthy. Everyone concerned with the development and management of the golf course will now be able to access information that will help in meeting our target of making courses more sustainable. This is a big step forward, and we are delighted with the work done by Maplecroft.”

Tuesday 30th January 2007

US College Golf
ANDREW HAY JOINT FIFTH IN FLORIDA
Former North-east boys' champion Andrew Hay from Westhill, a second-year student at Webber International University in Florida, shot a five-over-par 77 (36-41) to finish joint fifth this week in a field of 34 for the Webber International invitational stroke-play college event at Lake Wales Country Club, Lake Wales in Florida.
The tournament was won by three shots by one of Hay's team-mates, Craig Isabel from Stanford-le-Hope, England, with a 69 (33-36).
Another Webber International student, Iain Stoddart from Uphall finished joint 17th on 83 (43-40).

US College Golf
JORDAN FINDLAY IN HOSPITAL AFTER ARIZONA NIGHTMARE
Fraserburgh exile Jordan Findlay was taken to hospital in Tucson, Texas after feeling so unwell that he was unable to complete the third round in the Ping Arizona Intercollegiate tournament over the Arizona National course. It was the first event of the second half of the American college golf season.
While 18-year-old Jordan was back home in Fraserburgh over the Christmas holidays, it had been thought then that he was suffering from some kind of flu. He had lost weight and was not feeling 100% but after being taken to various doctors by his father, no particular illness could be pinpointed.
Findlay returned to East Tennessee State University, where he is in the middle of his second year, and though he still felt very much below par – in a personal health context – he felt he had to play for the team in the Ping Arizona Intercollegiate.
But Jordan’s mystery illness was soon reflected in his standard of scoring.
The former British boys’ champion began the tournament with a 9 at the par-4 first hole and returned an 87 (45-42) – 16 over par for the 6,793yd course – in the first round and then an 81 (38-43) in the second.
He began the third and final round in last position in the high-class field of 89. Starting at the 12th, he had double bogeys at the 12th, 16th and 17th and was 12 over par for the day – with eight holes still to play – which meant he was 38 over par for the 46 holes he had completed over the three rounds – when Jordan indicated that he could not go on.
He was taken off the course and then to hospital. His father Iain is waiting anxiously to hear if the doctors can find out what is wrong with his son.
LEADING FINAL TOTALS
Par 216 (3 x 72)
199 Brian Prouty (Arizona) 62 67 70.
203 Charlie Beljan (New Mexico) 70 65 68, Seamus Power (East Tennessee State) 69 66 68.
Other totals:
206 Gareth Shaw (East Tennessee State) 68 69 69(jt 5th).
211 Rhys Davies (East Tennessee State) 69 76 66.
228 Cian McNamara (East Tennessee State) 76 74 78.
Retired (during third round): Jordan Findlay (East Tennessee State) 87 81 -.
LEADING TEAM TOTALS
829 UNLV.
833 Brigham Young.
840 Arizona.
841 Tennessee.
842 UC-Irvine.
848 East Tennessee State.
850 Arizona State.
856 Arizona B.
857 Pepperdine.
862 Oregon.

CLARE PIPPED FOR PLACE IN AUSSIE OPEN
Clare Queen was beaten in a four-way play-off for the last qualifying spot in the MFS Women's Australian Open which starts at Royal Sydney Golf Club on Thursday.
English amateur Danielle Montgomery tied with the best score of 71 with another amateur, Jenny Lee, in the qualifying round at St Michael's Golf Club, Sydney.
The play-off on 75 feature the Scots tour pro and amateurs Stacey Keating, Sylvia Donohoe Justine Lee.Keating won the sixth and last qualifying place with a birdie at the first sudden-death hole.

WATSON THIRD, McEWAN SIXTH IN NEW SOUTH WALES EVENT
Craig Watson (East Renfrewshire) and Steven McEwan (Barassie) finished a very creditable third and joint sixth in the prestigious Lake Macquarie International tournament at the Belmont Golf Club, New South Wales.
The 72-hole event ended in an all-Australian play-off over three holes between Blake McGrory and Justin Roach after they had tied on 282. McGrory won the title.
Watson, in his 41st year, did splendidly to be the leading international player in third place only two shots behind the play-off contestants on 284.
Craig had rounds of 74, 70, 70 and 70.
McEwan, Scottish boys’ open stroke-play champion in 2005, achieved his best ever men’s international field result with scores of 72, 69, 72 and 73 for a share of sixth place on 286.
England’s Stephen Lewton finished joint 13th on 290, Gary Wolstenholme joint 27th on 292 and David Horsey joint 36th on 294.
LEADING TOTALS
282 Blake McGrory (Aus) 72 69 71 70, Justin Roach (Aus) 71 67 75 69 (McGory won three-hole play-off).
284 Craig Watson (Sco) 74 70 70 70.
Other totals:
286 Steven McEwan (Sco) 72 69 72 73 (jt 6th).
290 Stephen Lewton (Eng) 72 75 70 73 (jt 13th).
292 Gary Wolstenholme (Eng) 70 74 75 73 (jt 27th).
294 David Horsey (Eng) 72 71 75 76 (jt 36th).

"TOO TIRED" MHAIRI PULLS OUT DOWN UNDER
Mhairi McKay has withdrawn from the Australian Women’s Open, starting at Royal Sydney GC on Thursday and next week’s ANZ Ladies Masters.
The California-based Scot says she is too tired to play.
Earlier this month, Glasgow-born Mhairi and Janice Moodie, representing Scotland, finished fourth in the Women’s World Cup in South Africa.

Monday 29th January 2007

KEN SCHOFIELD ADVICE FOR MICHELLE WIE - STOP PLAYING WITH THE MEN!
Michelle Wie will continue to “suffer” if she persists in taking on the men at their own game – that’s the view of Ken Schofield CBE, former CEO of the PGA European Tour, speaking on the opening day of the second GolfEx Dubai, the premier exhibition for the region’s golf industry.
“Will someone please tell the lovely Michelle Wie that the ladies have a superb tour and history?” said Auchterarder-born Ken (pictured right).
“She would do well to focus on that and add to it – or maybe she believes she is right to play with the men and suffer and suffer.”
But Alexandra Armas, Ladies European Tour Executive Director, said: “If she (Wie) believes she can do it, then why not? These players are there to elevate women’s golf to another level and we have to work with that.”
Schofield, who is part of a seven-man panel looking into why England’s cricketers suffered so humiliatingly to Australia this winter, also questioned whether co-sanctioned tours are beneficial to mid-range professionals who struggle to play enough tournaments.
“If you look at the Buick Tournament that’s played over two courses, maybe that is the way forward,” he said. “I’m sure that a prize money cap wouldn’t be popular with the players.”
TRIBUTE TO TIGER
Schofield also paid tribute to Tiger Woods’ remarkable consistency over the last ten years and his willingness to play worldwide and be seen as the premier ‘global golfer’.
He also rejected as an “insult” the suggestion that the US team’s poor record in the Ryder Cup was down to an uncaring approach.
Armas highlighted the ongoing growth in the Ladies European Tour, which has four new tournaments this year, taking the total to 24. But she acknowledged greater efforts still need to be made in promoting the women’s game and challenging old perceptions - the average prize fund for women’s events is 400,000 Euros, far below that of most men’s events.
“There’s an image of it as boring, old and traditional but the reality is it’s young and fashionable,” she said. “We have to work hard to get the message across.”
The biggest event in the ladies’ calendar, the Solheim Cup, will be held in Halmstad from September 14-16.
[Personally I think she is being driven by her sponsors, and has very little say in where she should play. She is still too young to join the LPGA tour, and she is still at school, and wants to go to University. The only invitations she is getting are from the Mens tour. - GGK]

GOLFING GOSSIP ATTRACTS TOP MONEY AT BONHAMS
Gossip dating back over 140 years caused a stir again on Saturday 27 January 2007 when a very rare copy of one of the most important books on early golf sold at Bonhams in Chester for £9,165, over three times the pre-sale estimate.
This signed first edition copy of ‘Golfer (George Robb): Historical Gossip about Golf and Golfers’, dated 1863 was the first anthology to be written on the sport. The book, which was presented in a lined clamshell box, sold to a European private collector.
Rare and desirable first editions regularly feature in Bonhams’ Golfing Memorabilia sales and often fetch huge prices. Another example in this sale was ‘The Golfer’s Handbook’ which made four times its estimate. Selling for £6,815. This book was so popular when it came out in 1881 that it was re-printed numerous times, changing its name by 1897 to ‘The Golfer’s Manual’. Offering a comprehensive history of the game, hints to beginners, feats of champion golfers and lists of leading clubs and their office-bearers, the book was a must-have for all who professed to have an interest in the sport. This very rare first edition is thought to be one of only three copies to have been sold in the past 25 years.
A box of books containing this rare find had been given to an elderly Scottish couple as a gift. They took the book to a Bonhams’ valuation day in Edinburgh, having no idea of its value, and were delighted with the price realised in Saturday’s sale.
Other highlights in the Bonhams’ Golfing Memorabilia sale included:
A painting of Tiger Woods by Craig Campbell, titled ‘Winning The Masters in 2005’ made top price, realising £12,925 against the pre-sale estimate of £7,000 – 9,000.
A set of 12 golf balls that would have sold for 10p each when new made a staggering £7,520. The set of Haskell bramble patterned balls, dating from c 1900, were presented in unused condition in loose paper wrappings in the original red B.F.Goodrich box.
A 100-year-old gutta percha golf ball found last year in a bed of rushes by the beach at St Andrews sold for £517.
A rare copy of ‘Reminiscences of Golf on St. Andrews Links’ by Robert Balfour, dated 1887, sold for double its estimate at £3,408.

EGU Press Release
ENGLAND SO CLOSE TO HAT-TRICK AS SPAIN SNATCH VICTORY
England’s youngsters were denied a third successive victory in the annual Costa Ballena Quadrangular tournament in Spain when they were beaten by the hosts on the final day.
Having overcome Germany and Finland, England only required a draw with Spain to complete a hat-trick and they were well on course after taking the foursomes 2-1.
But they slipped in the afternoon, winning only one of the six singles, that being secured by last year’s boy captain Sam Hutsby (pictured left - photo courtesy of Tom Ward), as Spain bounced back to complete a 6-3 victory.
That meant Spain, who had lost to Germany, and England had two wins each but the Spanish took top spot with 17 match points to England’s 15.5.
So close was the contest that just one more singles win would have given England overall victory by half a point.
England’s top scorers were Hampshire-based Hutsby and Gareth Evans from Yorkshire, the English Champion of Champions, both with five wins from six, Evans’ setback coming on the final afternoon, while fellow Yorkshireman Steve Uzzell scored 4.5 and Matthew Baldwin from Lancashire four.
Results
England 7.5 Germany 1.5; Spain 7 Finland 2;
England 5 Finland 4; Germany 5 Spain 4;
Finland 5.5 Germany 3.5; Spain 6 England 3

LOCH LOMOND APPOINTS NEW GENERAL MANAGER
Niall Flanagan was today announced as the new general manager of Loch Lomond Golf Club, the private international club that is home to The Barclays Scottish Open golf championship.
Flanagan joins Loch Lomond with over 20 years of experience in the golf and club industries, most recently having held a senior management position in the St Andrews Links Trust in Scotland.
During his tenure at St Andrews, Flanagan was involved with the design and development of the Castle Course, sat on the committee for the 2005 Open Championship and was the inaugural chairman of the St Andrews Links Junior Golf Association.
Prior to working at St Andrews, Flanagan was a member of the Executive Management Committee of Dubai Golf, responsible for all aspects of the strategic and functional management of the Nad al Sheba Club. He has also held the position of Director of Golf at Celtic Manor, the host venue for the 2010 Ryder Cup, been Tournament Director with the Professional Golfers Association, and from 1992 to 1995, he was the Club Administrator at the Wentworth Club, venue of the PGA and World Matchplay Championships.
Commenting on the appointment, Loch Lomond Chairman Lyle Anderson said:
“We are delighted to welcome Niall Flanagan as General Manager of Loch Lomond. He brings with him a wealth of experience from both an operational and a tournament perspective, which I am certain will be of great value as we further our goal of establishing Loch Lomond as the finest international private golf club.”
Flanagan said:
“I feel very privileged to have been given the opportunity to take over the reigns at Loch Lomond. It is an exceptional golf course with outstanding facilities, from the 18th century clubhouse to the luxury accommodation, the new spa and the links course at Dundonald

Saturday 27th January 2007

US College Golf
McGHEE BEST OF SCOTS AS US COLLEGE SEASON RESTARTS
Scots Paul McGhee, Andrew Hay and Iain Stoddart finished in eighth, 15th and 23rd place respectively in a field of 34 players for the first event of the second half of the American college circuit. Paul, pictured right, is a member of East Renfrewshire.
The tournament – the Royal Winter Invitational at Oakwood Golf Club, Lake Wales in Florida - was restricted to teams from three Florida universities: Johnson & Wales ( Miami), Webber International University (Babson Park) and Warner Southern College.
Drew Downs (Webber International) won the individual title with rounds of 71, 67 and 74 over the par-72 6,681yd course for a total of one-under-par 212.
He won by five shots from Bill Maguire (Johnson & Wales) with 71, 75 and 71.
McGhee (Johnson & Wales) shared eighth place on 227 with scores of 74, 75 and 78.
Andrew Hay (Webber International), pictured above, from Westhill, Aberdeen, a winner in his last tournament of the first half of the college season, put together disappointing rounds of 80, 79 and 77 for 236.
Iain Stoddart (Webber International) from Uphall, West Lothian came 23rd with scores of 85, 80 and 79 for 244.
Johnson & Wales won the team event with a total of 894. Webber International (906) were second and Warner Southern College (998) third.

Friday 26th January 2006

SUSAN AND ANGEL ARE HOLLYWOOD STARS WITH FINAL WIN
Leading qualifiers Susan Choi (Natick, Massachusetts) and Angel Sze (San Marino, California) stayed at the top of the board all week as they won the 61st Women's International Four-ball championship at Orangebrook Golf & Country Club, Hollywood, Florida.
They beat Mary Hanyak and Marianne Springer in the final but the "underdogs" from Wellington, Florida took the title favourites all the way to the 18th green before admitting defeat in what was the last event on the Orange Blossom Tour.
Both partnerships had a couple of birdies each and there was never more than a hole in it after the seventh.
Choi and Sze took a one-hole lead to the 18th tee after Angel holed a 5ft birdie putt at the 17th.
Needing "only" a par 5 at the 18th to clinch victory, Susan hit her second shot in the water.
But she knocked her fourth to within 8ft of the flagstick and drained the eight-footer to win the title for her and her partner.
FINAL
Susan Choi and Angel Sze bt Mary Hanyak and Marianne Springer 1 hole.

*Kirkwoodgolf thanks Brian Gilchrist, director of golf at Orangebrook G&CC, for his daily news service and yet another picture above - "We won! We won!" Susan Choi and Angel Sze cannot contain their joy and excitement when the final putt drops at the 18th.

KRYSTLE CAITHNESS HAS GEORGIA ON HER MIND
By COLIN FARQUHARSON
Under-21 girls champion Krystle Caithness, arguably the best home-based Scottish female golf prospect, has made a verbal commitment to join Georgia University in August for four years.
The 18-year-old from Cellar Dyke, Fife, meantime at the Desert Springs Golf Resort in Spain for warm-weather training with the Ladies Golf Union Elite Squad, made the decision after a seven-day tour of three American colleges – Georgia, Texas A&M and Ohio State Universities.
“Krystle and I had a great time in the States, meeting so many wonderful people at the three universities,” said her dad Jim who also made the trip.
“She had such a hard and agonising decision to make before opting for Georgia.
“Lorne Kelly and the team at ProDream USA have done a great job for Krystle. They have looked after her every step of the way and continue to do so. They could not have been more helpful. I am glad we signed up for ProDream once Krystle decided that her future as a golfer lay in America.”
Lorne Kelly is a former Walker Cup team member who played on the American college circuit. He founded ProDream USA to help talented young golfers in Britain realise their American dreams.
“We secured three official visits for Krystle and her family to look at three of America’s top golf colleges, all offering her full scholarships,” said Lorne.
“The fact that Krystle is such an exceptional talent made it an exciting job for me but ultimately my role was to ensure she made the correct decision.
“The track record and professionalism of coach Todd McCorkle at the University of Georgia proved to be the deciding factor.
“I firmly believe that Krystle will have a massive impact on US women’s college golf. She is a special ‘packaged’ player already at 18 years of age and has played herself into Curtis Cup reckoning.
“In my opinion, so long as she maintains her work ethic and desire to succeed, she could very well be the next Scottish player to penetrate the LPGA Tour in the States upon graduation.”
“We at ProDream expect big things of Krystle Caithness – and so too does the University of Georgia.”
Georgia University is currently No 1 in the US women’s college team rankings and they have two players in the top 10 individual rankings but one of them will graduate in May-June and coach McCorkle will see Krystle as a ready-made replacement in the Georgia squad of five.
The campus and golf facilities are at Athens, Georgia, about 70 miles from the city of Atlanta.
Krystle is in contention for a place in the Great Britain team of five for the Commonwealth team tournament in South Africa from May 7 to 11 and the GB&I team of nine for the Vagliano Trophy match against the Continent of Europe at Fairmont St Andrews Bay on July 27 and 28.
She was second reserve for the GB&I team of eight for the past summer’s Curtis Cup match at Bandon Dunes, Oregon.
For her the highlight of 2006 was winning the prestigious St Rule Trophy over 54 holes from a high-class field over her home courses at St Andrews last year, even ahead of winning the Scottish Under-21 girls title at Stirling by 11 strokes with a 20-under-par total of 202, which include a course-record round of 64.
+There are already nine Scottish girl golfers at colleges in America – Gemma Webster (Ohio State), Louise Fleming (Jacksonville State, Alabama), Ashton Ingram (Belmont Abbey College, North Carolina), Katy McNicoll (Lynn University, Florida), Kelly Brotherton (Tennessee-Chattanooga), Kate O’Sullivan (High Point, North Carolina), and Carly Booth and Sally Watson, both students at the David Leadbetter Golf Academy in Florida. Scottish Under-18 girls champion Roseanne Niven from Crieff enrolled at the University of California Berkeley earlier this month on a four-year golf scholarship and Sally Watson’s older sister Rebecca will start at the University of Tennessee next August.

Thursday, January 25, 2007

TOP SEEDS AGAINST GIANT-KILLERS IN FOUR-BALL FLORIDA FINAL
Friday's 18-hole final of the 61st Women's International Amateur Four-Ball championship at Orangebrook Golf & Country Club, Hollywood in Florida - the last event on this year's Orange Blssom Tour - will feature the top seeds, Susan Choi (Natick, Ma) and Angel Sze (San Marino, California) against a pair of giant-killers, Mariane Springer and Mary Hanyak, both from Wellington, Florida.
In tough playing conditions, Susan and Angel beat two Hall of Famers, Marlene Streit (Ontario, Canada) and US Curtis Cup captain and many times team member, Carol Semple Thomson from Sewickley, Pennsylvania by 4 and 3 in the first semi-final today.
Mariane Springer and Mary Hanyak claimed the notable scalps of the defending champions, Diane Lang (Weston, Florida), a past US senior women's champion, and Monica Von Glahn (North Palm Beach, Florida) by one hole.
Mariane birdied the last to give the underdogs a place in the final of the better-ball tournament.

R&A TO ALLOW WOMEN’S BRITISH OPEN COMPETITORS TO USE CLUBHOUSE
The Royal & Ancient Golf Club – which has an all-male membership – is to open the doors of its famous clubhouse at the Old Course to the competitors in the Weetabix Women’s British Open over the Old Course in August.
The ladies will be given full use of the entire building, including the Big Room and the locker rooms.
The Ladies Golf Union, which runs the Women’s British Open, has come out against any future events under its auspices being held at a club which debars female membership.
But the all the St Andrews courses are municipal venues, owned and run by the St Andrews Links Trust. The Royal & Ancient Golf Club does not own the Old Course although it has its clubhouse beside the 18th green and behind the first tee.
As Lesley Burn, appointed chief executive of the LGU last year,
“If we had stuck to our principles, then we wouldn’t go there. But this is St Andrews and the opportunity to use such an iconic building and to work with the R&A is’nt something we should snub.
“If the R&A are prepared to welcome us, I, for one, am not going to turn down their offer. It’s an opportunity to cement our relationship with the R&A.
“Having the championship at the Old Course is a wonderful opportunity. It is a huge chance to the women’s game to raise its profile.”
Susan Simpson, Carnoustie-born LGU Director of Championships, said:
This will be the first time most of the players will have played the Old Course and we are determined to do things properly.”

TIGER WILL MISS OPEN IF BABY IMMINENT
Tiger Woods is prepared to miss the Open at Carnoustie in July if the birth of his first child clashes with the third major of the season.
The Open championship takes place at Carnoustie from July 19-22, the same month as Woods’ Swedish wife Elin is expected to give birth.
“If it happens, it happens. If it crosses over, it crosses over,” Tiger told a news conference on Wednesday as he prepared for this week’s Buick Invitational at San Diego.
“That’s the most important thing, not another golf tournament. I just wouldn’t go. If she’s going to have it during the week of the Open, I just don’t go.”
Woods won last year's Open at Royal Liverpool Golf Club, Hoylake.

FLORIDA CHAMPIONS THROUGH TO SEMI-FINALS
Defending champions Diane Lang and Monica Von Glahn are still on course to retain the International women's amateur better-ball championship - the final event on the Orange Blossom Tour - at Orangebrook Golf & Country Club, Hollywood in Florida.
They won their quarter-final by 4 and 3 today.
Diane, a former US senior women's champion, is pictured in action today.
Results:
QUARTER-FINALS
Sue Choi and Angel Sze bt Mary Hill and Peggy Woodard 2 & 1.
Marlene Streit and Carol Thompson bt Doria Cummings and Benedikte Grotvedt 4 & 3.
Marianne Springer and Mary Hanyak bt Taffy Brower and Gale Brudner 2 & 1.
Diane Lang and Monica Von Glahn bt Corey Weworski and Carolyn Creekmore 4 & 3.
SEMI-FINALS
Choi and Sze v Streit and Thompson.
Springer and Hanyak v Lang and Von Glahn.

LGU Press Release
LADIES’ GOLF UNION & BREAKTHROUGH BREAST CANCER FORM PARTNERSHIP
The Ladies’ Golf Union and Breakthrough Breast Cancer have announced a partnership that aims to raise awareness and funds with the help of lady golfers.
Breakthrough Breast Cancer is the UK’s leading charity committed to fighting breast cancer through research, campaigning and education and with the help of the LGU hopes that many within the golfing community will take up ‘Breakthrough’s £1000 Challenge’.
Speaking at the launch of the initiative at the Ladies’ Golf Union AGM in Edinburgh, Lesley Burn, its CEO said, “We feel that ladies’ golf is in a strong position to put something back into the wider community and are delighted to have formed a partnership with Breakthrough Breast Cancer.”
“Several of our staff and executive council will take up Breakthrough’s £1000 Challenge. Special Breakthrough golf pins will be available to all clubs and at our events. If our modest contribution helps towards greater knowledge of this devastating disease and helps achieve Breakthrough’s vision of a future free from the fear of breast cancer then something positive will have been accomplished from our partnership.
"It is with this in mind that we were today delighted to present Dr Smalley, Mammory Stem Sells Team Leader at the Breakthrough Toby Robins Breast Cancer Research Centre, with a cheque for £1500 collected at our 2006 Women’s British Open.”
Chris Askew, Director of Fundraising at Breakthrough Breast Cancer was equally enthusiastic over the initiative and said, “We are excited to be working in partnership with the LGU and the golfing community as a whole. Through future innovative fundraising from lady golfers and golf clubs and through sales of the specially created lapel pins which reflect this partnership, you will be raising the vital funds needed to continue Breakthrough’s pioneering work.”

LGU Press Release
JANET BROWN TAKES OVER AS CHAIRMAN OF THE LADIES’ GOLF UNION
Janet Brown was appointed Chairman of the Ladies’ Golf Union at their AGM today in Edinburgh. She will serve for a period of 12 months.
Janet first became involved in golf administration in the period leading up to her taking over the captaincy of the ladies’ section of Melrose Golf Club, a nine hole course in the Scottish Borders. This was quickly followed by her captaincy of the Borders County and then a five year spell starting in 1993 on the Executive of the Scottish Ladies’ Golfing Association, where for three years, she was chairman of the Girls’ Championship.
On leaving the SLGA Executive in 1998, Janet sat the R&A referee examination and since then has officiated at major championships and international tournaments including the Vagliano Trophy and the Weetabix Women’s British Open.
She joined the Executive of the LGU in 2003 and served on the European Championship Committee for three years. As a handicap advisor she was involved in assisting clubs in the changeover to the CONGU Unified Handicapping System in 2004.
Since she retired from her career as a physiotherapist in 1998, Janet has been kept fully occupied in golf administration and in looking forward to her year in office said:
“This coming year will be a watershed for the LGU and with Chief Lesley Burn now reviewing our entire operation, it will be an exciting 12 months for ladies’ golf. We have many strengths within the LGU and we must reinforce these while at the same time taking forward new initiatives that will help to develop ladies’ golf.”
Janet lives in Melrose with her husband Derek, a past president of the Scottish Rugby Union. They have two daughters, Marnie and Jeni, a son Robbie and four grandchildren.
[Photo courtesy and copyright © Una Kindlon]

LGU Press Release
JOAN NEVILLE J.P.BECOMES PRESIDENT OF THE LADIES’ GOLF UNION
Joan Neville J.P., the Chairman of the Ladies’ Golf Union in 1990, took up the position of President of the LGU at the Annual General meeting today in Edinburgh.
Mrs Neville will be the 22nd President since the position was instigated in 1908 and will commence her three years in office in succession to Catherine Booth.
Her career in golf administration started soon after she had joined her home club of The Monmouthshire in Abergavenny in 1962. She was the ladies captain there in 1972 and again in 1992 and is now a Vice President of the club. She has also been a member of Royal Porthcawl since 1980.
Mrs Neville commenced a 16 year spell on the Executive Council of the Welsh Ladies’ Golf Union in 1980 and was Chairman in 1995-1996. She served on the LGU from 1987-1990.
Throughout the 1970’s and 1980’s Mrs Neville played for both club and county teams, a leisure activity that had to dovetail with her duties as a Justice of the Peace which ran from 1967-2006.
Mrs Neville is married to Kevin, a retired GP, and they live in Blaina in the ‘Welsh Valleys’, 10 miles from Abergavenny.
In expressing surprise at being asked to be President she said, “I retired from the court at the end of March and had started to wonder how I would fill my day when, out of the blue, four days later, I received the call inviting me to be President.
“It is a great honour to be asked and I am delighted to accept the nomination. I am certainly looking forward to working with our team of dedicated staff and officials in our common aim of taking the LGU forward into the 21st Century.”
[Photo courtesy and copyright © Una Kindlon]

Orange Blossom Tour
TITLE-HOLDERS QUALIFY IN SECOND PLACE IN INTERNATIONAL FOUR-BALL
Title-holders Monica Von Glahn and Diane Lang qualified in second place for the match-play stages of the 61st International Women’s Four-ball tournament, the final event of the Orange Blossom Tour, at Orangebrook Golf & Country Club, Hollywood in Florida.
Monica and Diane had better-ball rounds of 71 and 67 for 138.
Top seeds are Angel Sze and Susan Choi with scores of 68 and 69 for 137.
QUALIFIERS
137 Angel Sze & Susan Choi 68 69.
138 Monica Von Glahn & Diane Lang 71 67, Gale Brudner & Taffy Brower 72 66.
139 Carole Thompson & Marlene Streit 71 68, Daria Cummings & Benedikte Grotvedt 71 68.
140 Carolyn Creekmore & Corey Weworski 73 67.
143 Mary Hanyak & Marianne Springer 71 72.
146 Mary Hill & Peggy Woodward 74 72.
DRAW
Choi & Sze v Hill & Woodward.
Grotvedt & Cummings v Streit & Thompson.
Brower & Brudner v Hanyak & Springer.
Lang & Von Glahn v Creekmore & Weworski.
NON-QUALIFIERS
147 Debbie Mook-Sang & Michelle Hartnell 76 71.
148 Maddie Weder & Evelyn Blackmon 76 72.
153 Jana Morris & Leslie Henry 79 74.
154 Jewell Frei & Ronnie Hall 79 75.
158 Marcella Rose & Maureen O’Brien 82 76.
171 Judy Coker & Michie Walker 93 78.

Monday 22nd January 2007

GARY AND VIVIENNE PLAYER’S HALF-CENTURY OF HAPPINESS
Whenever you hear a story about the great Gary Player, it seems there is always some impressive number attached to him. He's traveled over 14 million miles, won 163 golf tournaments worldwide, earned a victory in all four US PGA Tour majors.
The 71-year-old South African has competed in 49 Masters and even bettered his age by shooting a 69 on the Champions Tour last year.
But perhaps the most extraordinary of all is this magic number-- 50. On January 19th, that's how long Player and his wife, Vivienne, have been married. Through all the years, the miles, the wins and losses, and the kids -- six children plus 18 grandchildren and counting -- the couple have spent over five decades madly in love. Read more........

RAMSAY HELD BUT SCOTS BEAT FRANCE IN MOROCCO MATCH
Scotland scored a good win by 8 ½-5 ½ over France in a friendly golf match at Royal Golf Dar Es-Salaam to end their warm-weather training week on a high note.
The Scots were trailing by 4 1/2 to 3 1/2 going into the final singles series of the two-day match but turned the tables on the French by taking the closing singles 5-1.
Although US amateur champion Richie Ramsay (Royal Aberdeen) was held to a square game by Victor Dubuisson in the top tie, Scotland won the next four ties and halved the other to emerge the overall winners by 3pt…
Lloyd Saltman (Craigielaw), Paul O’Hara (Colville Park), Ross Kellett (Colville Park) and Scott Henry (Cardross) all won tight ties and Scottish champion Kevin McAlpine (Alyth) finished all square in the last game.
Scottish Golf Union national coach Ian Rae made the trip with the Scots.
Results of final programme of singles (Scotland names first):
Richie Ramsay halved with Victor Dubuisson.
Lloyd Saltman bt Alexander Kaleka 2 and 1.
Paul O’Hara bt Jean-Jacques Wolff 1 hole.
Ross Kellett bt Adrien Bernadet 2 and 1.
Scott Henry bt Benjamin Hebert 2 and 1.
Kevin McAlpine halved with Romain Schneider.

THE OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP 2007 – CARNOUSTIE
DISCOUNTED SEASON TICKETS
In the modern era, only Peter Thomson has won The Open Championship in three successive years, 1954 to 1956, but, this year, at Carnoustie, Tiger Woods has the chance to equal that feat and to join an exclusive club of only four players who have achieved the treble.
The draw of Tiger is universal and this has had a positive effect on advance ticket sales. Spectators are, therefore, recommended to plan well ahead of The Open in July and to take advantage of season tickets which can be purchased with maximum discount until the end of January 2007.
Until 31 January, a season ticket for the eight days of practice and Championship play can be purchased for £150, just over 50% of the cost of daily tickets. After January, the cost will be £170 and from 1 May it will be £190, still a discount of 30%.
“We have held ticket prices at 2006 levels to encourage as many spectators as possible along to Carnoustie,” said Director of Championships, David Hill.
“When you consider that all of the world’s top golfers will be playing and that The Open is one of the few truly top class international sporting events held annually in the United Kingdom, we believe that it represents excellent value for money.”
A daily ticket costs £50 for each of the four days of the Championship, with concession tickets available and juveniles under the age of 16 admitted free-of-charge, if accompanied by a responsible adult on the day or by prior application.
Ticket applications should be directed in writing to: Ticket Office, The R&A, St Andrews, Fife, KY16 9JD; by telephone on: +44 (0) 1334 460010 or through on-line purchasing at www.opengolf.com.

NO MOBILE PHONES AT THE OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP
Spectators who intend attending The Open Championship, to be played at Carnoustie from Sunday 15 to Sunday 22 July 2007, are being advised that they will not be permitted to have mobile phones in their possession within The Open site.
This policy is in line with other major golf championships, including this year’s Ryder Cup at the K Club, and follows comments from players concerning the excessive numbers in evidence this year at Hoylake.
David Hill, Director of Championships for The R&A, said, “We have so far resisted the call to ban mobile phones on the grounds that it may be an inconvenience to the public. However, after receiving complaints referring to the numbers that were in use as play in The Open was proceeding, we feel there is no other reasonable option other than a complete ban.
“As at the Ryder Cup, we believe that spectators will understand that this measure is being put in place to make The Open a more enjoyable experience for all spectators and players. I would stress that we will install additional public telephones for use by members of the general public.”
In order to implement the ‘No Mobile Phone Policy’, security checks of every spectator will be in operation at the paygates.

EGU Press Release
ENGLAND YOUNGSTERS PIPPED BY SPRINKBOKS
A talented England junior team was narrowly beaten into second place by the hosts in a round robin match also involving Canada at Zebula Country Club in South Africa.
The three-day event was originally scheduled as a quadrangular match, but when the Netherlands withdrew it turned into a three-way contest with singles on the first and third days and foursomes on day two.
The magnificent Zebula course in the South African bush proved a superb test for all 18 youngsters and with the temperature in the thirties, conditions called for strict concentration.
England’s six-man team, all members of the Under 18 Squad, opened with a 5-0 victory over Canada with one match halved but were beaten 2-4 by South Africa.
With two points awarded for a win and one for a half, that left England on 15 points, two behind the hosts with Canada on four.
In the second day foursomes, England completed the double, beating Canada 3-0 and South Africa 2-1 to lead with 25 points to South Africa’s 21 and Canada on eight.
On the final day, England again wrapped up a 4-2 win over Canada but were beaten 4-1 by South Africa with one match halved.
That meant South Africa took the event with 40 points to England’s 36 with Canada on 14. But if England had managed one more win they would have tied with the Springboks.
Jack Hiluta and Eddie Pepperell were England’s top scorers, both being unbeaten. Hiluta from Essex had five wins and a half from his six matches while Oxfordshire-based Pepperell secured four wins and two halves.
“I was very proud of the way our boys played,” said team manager Brian Roake. “They were only pipped at the post by some magnificent play from the South Africans.”

Sunday 21st January 2007

SCOTS FINISH JOINT 4th AS PARAGUAY WIN BY SEVEN SHOTS
Scotland's Janice Moodie, pictured left, and Mhairi McKay, pictured right, finished with a better-than-average better-ball round of four-under-par 68 to finish joint fourth with Italy in the Women's World Cup of Golf at Gary Player Country Club, Sun City in South Africa.
Janice and Mhairi totalled level par 288 - to finish nine strokes behind the runaway winners, Juliete Granada (20), and Celeste Troch (25), who had seven shots to spare at the finish from runners-up United States (Juli Inkster and Pat Hurst).
Janice partnered Catriona Matthew to second place behind the Swedes in last year's World Cup. Both players have since had babies, Catriona's the more recent and she is taking an extended break from the LPGA Tour.
The Paraguay pair, who led from start to finish, showed their class by producing the best better-ball score of the final day - a seven-under-par 65 which gave them a final total of nine-under4 279.
The Americans finished with a 67 for 286 - one shot ahead of third-placed South Korea.
INVERNESS-BASED PLAYER
Liz McKinnon, who lives were her Scottish husband near Inverness, was a member of the New Zealand team who finished joint 10th on 296.
Defending champions Sweden were obviously not the same team without Annika Sorenstam and there was never much likelihood of them winning the trophy two years in a row. But one felt that Helen Alfredsson and Carin Koch might have finished higher up than 18th in the field of 22 with a total of 308.
Wales (Becky Morgan and Becky Brewerton) claimed eighth spot on 294, one shot and one place ahead of England's Laura Davies and Trish Johnson.
Ireland did not have a good tournament. Rebecca Coakley and Hazel Kavanagh did not play anywhere near their best in totalling 315 to finish second last in 21st place.
FINAL TOTALS
Par 288 (4 x 72)
279 Paraguay 139 75 65.
286 United States 149 70 67.
287 South Korea 143 77 67.
288 Scotland 145 76 68, Italy 145 73 71.
291 Australia 148 74 69.
293 Taiwan 150 77 66.
294 Wales 148 78 68.
295 England 154 74 67.
296 Finland 150 72 74, New Zealand 146 77 73.
297 Brazil 154 72 71299 France 157 73 69.
300 Denmark 149 83 68, Japan 155 78 67.
301 South Africa 157 78 66, Spain 155 80 66.
308 Sweden 157 81 70.
313 Germany 165 73 75, Norway 160 75 78.
315 Ireland 160 80 75.
339 Kenya 169 91 79.

Saturday 20th January 2007

SLGA Ltd AGM
Ethel Jack elected President of SLGA Ltd
It was practically a full house for the SLGA Ltd AGM, held for the first time on a Saturday, at the Station Hotel in Perth. It was also the first AGM of SLGA Ltd, who became a Company "Limited by Guarantee" last summer. The year-end is now the end of September, hence the January date for the AGM.
Proceedings were pretty much the same as usual, except that the out-going Chairman of the Board, Margaret Rodgers, chaired the meeting, rather than the outgoing President, Nancy Chisholm.
The Stroyan Cup, won by Scotland's Girls team at PortStewart was on display, and the audience heard of the many successes of our young Scottish stars over the past year.
A detailed explanation of the current financial situation and future projection by Finance Director Dr Lynne Terry, resulted in a majority voting for an increase in annual subscription to £10 per club member.
Mrs Tony Moffat and Mrs Belle Robertson were appointed Vice-Presidents.
Ethel Jack, pictured right, from Midlothian was elected President and Aberdeenshire's Margaret McNaughton took over as Chairman of the Board. Winifred McCallum from Stirling and Clackmannan replaced Margaret Rodgers, and Helen Cuthbertson from Borders replaced Isobel Fairlie as Board members.
At the end of the meeting LGU Deputy Councillor, Shona Malcolm, gave a status report of the One Plan for Golf and ClubGolf initiatives.

TEENAGER MARIKA LENDL CONFIRMS CLASS WITH VICTORY IN FINAL OF 'JONES/DOHERTY'
Marika Lendl, 11th in the Golfweek/Titleist American girl rankings and one of former world tennis ace Ivan Lendl’s golfing daughters, won her biggest title todate at Coral Ridge Country Club, Fort Lauderdale in Florida today.
Teenager Marika beat another classy junior, Lindy Duncan, by 3 and 2 to win the Ione D Jones/Doherty Challenge Cup women’s amateur tournament, the third event on the annual Orange Blossom tour in Florida.
Marika Lendl , pictured right with her father, won two American Junior Golf Association titles last year, including the McDonald's Betsy Rawls girls’ championship and she obviously has a great future, almost certainly in the pro ranks eventually after she goes to college.
Lindy Duncan, 14th ranked by Golfweek, was a quarter-finalist in last year’s US women’s amateur championship. Conqueror of two Stirling University students, Claire-Marie Carlton and Emma Tipping earlier in the week, Lindy is another with rosy prospects.
All four of the Jones/Doherty Challenge Cup semi-finalists were juniors.
The seniors’ championship was won by Connie Shorb who beat Therese Quinn by one hole. Connie beat the favourite, US Curtis Cup captain, Carol Semple Thompson, by 2 and 1 in the semi-finals.
Here’s a recap on all the results in the two main events:
CHAMPIONSHIP
FIRST ROUND
Jordyn Hage def. Alexandra Bodemann 2 holes.
Taylor Collins def. Alexandra Frazie, 4 and 2.
Mary Jane Hiestand def. Gina Johnston 2 and 1.
Stefanie Kenoyer def. Patsy Ehret 8 and 7.
Maggie Weder def. Susan Choi 2 and 1.
Claire-Marie Carlton def. Rachel Cassidy 4 and 3.
Lindy Duncan def. Gia Fanelli 6 and 4.
Emma Tipping def. Dawn Dewar 5 and 4.
Marika Lendl def. Natalie McNicholas 5 and 3.
Rachel Carpenter def. Taffy Brower 2 holes.
Marilyn Hardy def. Julie Garner 2 and 1.
Susan Nam def. Julie Carmichael 4 and 3.
Isabelle Lendl def. Daria Cummings 1 hole.
Laura Carson def. Madison Pressel 3 and 2.
Kyle Roig def. Reggie Parker 6 and 5.
Kristina Wong def. Benedikte Grotvedt 2 holes.
SECOND ROUND
Taylor Collins def. Jordyn Hage 2 and 1.
Stefanie Kenoyer def. Mary Jane Hiestand 1 hole.
Claire-Marie Carlton def. Maggie Weder 4 and 3.
Lindy Duncan def. Emma Tipping 5 and 4.
Marika Lendl def Rachel Carpenter 2 and 1.
Susan Nam def. Marilyn Hardy 2 and 1.
Isabelle Lendl def. Laura Carson 5 and 4.
Kristina Wong def. Kyle Roig at 19th.
QUARTER-FINALS
Stefanie Kenoyer def. Taylor Collins at 20th.
Lindy Duncan def. Claire-Marie Carlton 4 and 3.
Marika Lendl def. Susan Nam 3 and 2.
Kristina Wong def. Isabelle Lendl 2 and 1.
SEMI-FINALS
Lindy Duncan def. Stefanie Kenoyer 3 and 2.
Marika Lendl def. Kristina Wong 4 and 2.
FINAL (18 holes)
Marika Lendl def. Lindy Duncan 3 and 2.
SENIOR CHAMPIONSHIP
FIRST ROUND
Carol Semple Thompson def. Ronnie Hall 4 and 2.
Natalie Easterly def. Ginny Orthwein at 21st. .
Peggy Woodard def. Kathleen Cox 1 hole.
Linda Pearson def. Debra Mielke 4 and 3.
Barb Pagana def. Lynne Owen 5 and 4.
Diana Schwab def. Deborah Jamgochian 5 and 3.
Connie Shorb def. Pat Hughes-Gelardi 5 and 3.
Meredith Wolf def. Clate Aydlett 5 and 3.
Carolyn Creekmore def. Gale Brudner 2 and 1.
Cynthia Curry def. Sharon Baerenklau 2 and 1.
Angela Stewart def. Moe O'Brien 7 and 5.
Marlene Streit def. Tinker Sanger at 21st.
Therese Quinn def. Bonnie George 6 and 5.
Debe Schwedler def. Mary Hill 6 and 5.
Janice Wilson def. Ann Fulginiti 5 and 4.
SECOND ROUND
Carol Semple Thompson def. Natalie Easterly 2 and 1.
Peggy Woodard def. Linda Pearson 2 and 1.
Diana Schwab def. Barb Pagana1 hole.
Connie Shorb def. Meredith Wolf 5 and 3.
Carolyn Creekmore def. Cynthia Curry 4 and 2.
Marlene Streit def. Angela Steward 1 hole..
Therese Quinn def. Debe Schwedler 4 and 3.
Cathy Richey def. Janice Wilson 2 holes.
QUARTER-FINALS
Carol Semple Thompson def. Peggy Woodard 4 and 3.
Connie Shorb def. Diana Schwab 1 hole.
Carolyn Creekmore def. Marlene Streit 6 and 5.
Therese Quinn def. Cathy Richey 4 and 2.
SEMI-FINALS
Connie Shorb def. Carol Semple Thompson 2 and 1.
Therese Quinn def. Carolyn Creekmore 2 and 1.
FINAL (18 holes)
Connie Shorb def. Therese Quinn 1 hole.

Women's World Cup
SCOTS SLIP DOWN TO FIFTH AS PARAGUAY LEAD BY FOUR
Paraguay’s Julieta Granada and Celeste Troche survived the potential disasters of the foursomes round today to stay on course for a first victory in the Women’s World Cup at Sun City, South Africa.
They got it round in 75, three over par but only the United States – Juli Inkster and Pat Hurst – made any sort of charge with a two-under-par 70. Who said the Americans – any Americans – couldn’t play foursomes?
With Sunday’s third and final round played under the better-ball format, Paraguay are on two-under-par 214 with a four-stroke lead over Italy’s Giulia Sergas and Veronica Zorzi with the United States in third place, on 219.
SCOTS IN FIFTH PLACE
Scotland’s Janice Moodie and Mhairi McKay, who should know how to play foursomes, could do no better than a 76 for 221, which put them down to fifth place, one spot behind South Korea who finished with a 77 for 220 after incurring a two-stroke penalty for an 8 at the very first hole.
A marshal moved an advertising board – without the South Koreans asking them to – so that they could play their shot, which they did.
If they had called a rules official before they played their shot, and explained the situation they would not have been penalised. But they didn’t – and they were!
Holders Sweden – missing Annika Sorenstam badly – fell further behind with a round of 81 for 238. Only Ireland (240) and Kenya (260) are behind them.
SECOND-ROUND SCOREBOARD
Par 216 (3 x 72)
First round: aggregate scores. Second round: foursomes.
214 Paraguay 139 75.
218 Italy 145 73.
219 United States 149 70.
220 South Korea 143 77.
221 Scotland 145 76.
222 Australia 148 74, Finland 150 72.
223 New Zealand 146 77.
226 Brazil 154 72, Wales 148 78.
227 England 154 74.
230 France 154 74.
230 France 157 73.
232 Denmark 149 83.
233 Japan 155 78.
235 Norway 160 75, South Africa 157 78, Spain 155 80.
238 Germany 165 73, Sweden 157 81.
240 Ireland 160 80.
260 Kenya 169 91.
+Sunday’s third and final round will be better-ball.

SLGA Ltd PRESS RELEASE
SCOTTISH WOMEN GOLFERS SIGN TOP GOLF COACH
TOP European coach KEVIN CRAGGS is the new driving force behind Scotland’s female golfers.
The Scottish Ladies’ Golfing Association Limited (SLGA) has appointed the highly respected PGA professional as their new national coach as they aim to further improve the skills of their talented young stars.
Kevin, who also doubles as the Daily Record’s Golf Doctor, a teacher for Bunkered Magazine and a commentator for BBC Radio Scotland, can’t wait to get to work helping Scotland’s best women golfers to lower their score on the course.
Kevin, who has coached several top professional golfers and was recently voted one of the top 25 golf coaches in the UK and Ireland by Golf Monthly, said: “I am thrilled to be joining the SLGA.
“Scotland has some excellent young female golf stars waiting to burst on to the scene. I am confident I can equip them with all that they need to play against the best in the world. I can’t wait to start work.
“The SLGA recognise the potential they have in these players and are very forward looking, that is why I had no hesitation in joining their organisation.
It will be my job to hone the players’ golf skills and also their mental attitude in order to make the best of their existing talent and give them a vital edge while they play in competitions. I will relish this challenge.”
Margaret MacNaughtan, Chairman of the SLGA, said: “It’s great news that Kevin has agreed to join us to strengthen our talented staff. He is one of the best coaches around and many top professionals on the European Tour come to him for advice.
“He is also a people person and makes anyone he coaches feel relaxed and at ease, which helps him get the best possible results. Our golfers really have hit the jackpot with Kevin’s appointment because they will receive the best advice, coaching and support from a master craftsman.”
People can find out more about Kevin Craggs on his website at www.kevincraggsgolf.com

CONQUEROR OF SCOTS REACHES FINAL IN FLORIDA
American Lindy Duncan, the No 5 seed and conqueror of Stirling University’s Emma Tipping and Claire-Marie Carlton, is through to the final of the Jones/Doherty Challenge Cup women’s amateur tournament at Coral Ridge Country Club, Fort Lauderdale in Florida.
Lindy beat Stefanie Kenoyer by 3 and 2 and will play teenager Marika Lendl, one of former tennis star Ivan Lendl’s daughters in the final.
US Curtis Cup captain Carol Semple Thompson, favourite for the seniors’ title, lost in the semi-finals.
Results:
CHAMPIONSHIP FLIGHT
Semi-finals
Lindy Duncan bt Stefanie Kenoyer 3 and 2.
Marika Lendl bt Kristina Wong 4 and 2.
FIRST FLIGHT
Semi-finals
Susan Choi bt Gina Johnston 5 and 4.
Julie Carmichael bt Grotvedt Benedikte 1 hole.
SENIOR CHAMPIONSHIP
Semi-finals
Connie Shorb bt Carol Semple Thompson 2 and 1.
Therese Quinn bt Carolyn Creekmore 2 and 1.

Friday 19th January 2007

Women's World Cup
MHAIRI'S 69 GIVES SCOTLAND GOOD START TO WOMEN'S WORLD CUP
Mhairi McKay, pictured right, recaptured some of her old form to return a three-under-par 69 and help Scotland end the first day of the Women's World Cup in joint third place at Sun City, South Africa.
Mhairi's partner, Janice Moodie - who partnered Catriona Matthew as the Scots finished runners-up to Sweden last year - had a 76, which gave Scotland a first-round aggregate of 145 - six shots behind the four-stroke leaders, Paraguay's Julieta Granada (70) and Celeste Troche (69).
Mhairi and Celeste had the lowest scores of the day.
With the singles out of the way and the foursomes and better-ball ahead over the weekend, Paraguay will be hard to catch. But Janice Moodie believes its not an impossible task.
“We’re pretty satisfied with our score and I think there are a number of teams that can still catch Paraguay. But to do that both players in the team have to play really well.”
Inverness-based Kiwi Liz McKinnon had a 74, two more than team-mate Lynn Brooky. The New Zealander's 146 put them right behind the Scots and Italy in fifth place.
FIRST ROUND LEADERS
139 Paraguay (Celeste Troche 69, Julieta Granada 70).
143 Korea (Ji Yai Shin 71, Young Kim 72).
145 Scotland (Mhairi McKay 69, Janice Moodie 76), Italy (Giulia Sergas 72, Veronica Zorzi 73).
146 New Zealand (Lynn Brooky 72, Liz McKinnon 74).
148 Wales (Becky Brewerton 74, Becky Morgan 74), Australia (Lindsey Wright 72, Nikki Garrett 76).
149 Denmark (Karen-Margrethe Juul 74, Iben Tinning 75), United States (Pat Hurst 74, Juli Inkster 75).
Other scores:
154 England (Trish Johnson 76, Laura Davies 78).
157 Sweden (Helen Alfredsson 78, Carin Koch 79).
160 Ireland (Rebecca Coakley 80, Hazel Kavanagh 80).

LESLEY MacKAY – AIMS HIGH
The 2006 PGA exams will be remembered for their toughness and the fact that only 13 assistants in Scotland managed to pass them. Lesley MacKay, a true highland lass from Golspie and one of Scotland’s most successful amateur golfers over the past decade was one of the 13.
Lesley was an international swimmer but gave it up to concentrate on golf, a decision she has never regretted. She represented Scotland at Girls' Home International Level and Girls' European level before progressing to the Scottish Ladies' teams where she played in no fewer than five Home International series and three European championships.
During her time as an amateur Lesley earned a Golf Scholarship at Stirling University where she developed her game under the watchful eye of, one of Scotland’s most successful golfers, John Chillas. When John left Stirling to play on the Seniors Tour Lesley moved to Karyn Dallas to be coached. Lesley graduated from Stirling University in 2002 with a Ba Hons Degree in Sports Studies and is currently working on a Masters degree in Sports Studies, which she hopes to complete in 2008.
In July 2004 Lesley took the plunge and turned Professional. She chose to work and study with her coach Karyn Dallas, at Kirriemuir Golf Club of which Lesley says, “Kirriemuir has one of the largest and most developed junior coaching programmes in Britain and working on this program was immensely beneficial. As Karyn was national coach, during my training, I gained experience from watching her coach players of all levels, from the complete beginners to elite players and National Squads”.
After qualifying as a PGA Professional Lesley left Kirriemuir to develop her skills as a coach and is currently one of a team of four Professional Golfers at the World of Golf in Glasgow. Lesley has been there for three months now and her reputation has spread quickly. Despite this being the off-season for golf, Lesley has a healthy coaching diary and many golfers are benefiting as a result. Anyone looking for a lesson can book by contacting: World of Golf, 2700 Great Western Road, Clydebank, Glasgow, 0141 944 4141, www.worldofgolf.co.uk
Karyn Dallas says of Lesley, “Lesley is a great golfer and was a diligent student. She has an eye for the swing, a great understanding of the game and a wonderful way with people. I have no doubt that Lesley will go on to be one of Scotland’s leading coaches”.

CLAIRE-MARIE BEATEN IN QUARTER-FINALS
Stirling University student Claire-Marie Carlton lost by 4 and 3 to the No 5 seed, Lindy Duncan from Florida in the quarter-finals of the Jones/Doherty women’s amateur tournament at Coral Ridge Country Club, Fort Lauderdale in Florida.
Claire-Marie had been the 20th seed.
In the previous round, Miss Duncan beat another Stirling student, Emma Tipping from Sandiway, Cheshire by 5 and 4.
A third Stirling student, Dawn Dewar from Monifieth, went down by 5 and 4 to Susan Choi in the quarter-finals of the first-flight competition for those beaten in the first round of the championship.
Results:
CHAMPIONSHIP FLIGHT
Quarter-finals
Stefanie Kenoyer bt Taylor Collins at 20th.
Lindy Duncan bt Claire-Marie Carlton 4 and 3.
Marika Lendl bt Susan Nam 3 and 2.
Kristina Wong bt Isabelle Lendl 2 and 1.
FIRST FLIGHT
Quarter-finals
Gina Johnston bt Alexandra Frazier 6 and 5.
Susan Choi bt Dawn Dear 5 and 4.
Julie Carmichael bt Natalie McNicholas 5 and 4.
Grotvedt Benedikte bt Dana Cummings 5 and 4.
SENIOR CHAMPIONSHIP
Quarter-finals
Carol Semple Thompson bt Peggy Woodward 4 and 3.
Connie Shorb bt Diana Schwab 1 hole.
Carolyn Creekmore bt Marlene Streit 6 and 5.
Therese Quinn bt Cathy Richey 4 and 2.

Thursday 18th January 2007

SCOT IN QUARTER-FINALS OF FLORIDA MATCH-PLAY
Stirling University student Claire-Marie Carlton (Fereneze) is through to the quarter-finals of the Jones-Doherty women’s amateur golf tournament at Coral Ridge Country Club, Fort Lauderdale in Florida.
Claire-Marie, the 20th qualifier for the match-play stages, beat Maggie Weder from North Carolina, the 29th qualifier, by 4 and 3.
The Scot now plays the fifth seed, Lindy Duncan from Florida. Lindy won by 5 and 4 against Emma Tipping from Sandiway, Cheshire, the only other Stirling student to reach the last 16.
In the first-flight competition for those who lost their first-round ties, Stirling students Dawn Dewar (Monifieth) and Rachel Cassidy (Dublin) had contrasting fortunes. Dawn won by 5 and 4 against Gia Fanelli but Rachel went down by 5 and 4 to Susan Choi.
A fifth Stirling student, Catherine Baines, went down by 8 and 6 to Lisa Schlesinger in a second-flight tie. In the same competition, Sarah Carty (Dublin) lost by 3 and 2 to Angel Sze.
The tournament is the third on the Orange Blossom Tour.
Results:
CHAMPIONSHIP FLIGHT
Second Round
Players from US unless stated.
Taylor Collins bt Jordyn Hage 2 and 1.
Mary Jane Hiestand bt Stefanie Kenoyer 1 hole.
Claire-Marie Carlton (Sco) bt Maggie Weder 4 and 3.
Lindy Duncan bt Emma Tipping (Eng) 5 and 4.
Marika Lendl Rachel Carpenter 2 and 1.
Susan Nam bt Marilyn Hardy 2 and 1.
Isabelle Lendl bt Laura Carson 5 and 4.
Kristina Wong bt Kyle Roig at 19th.
FIRST FLIGHT
First round
Alexandra Fraseir walk-over.
Patsy Ehret bt Gina Johnston 5 and 4.
Susan Choi bt Rachel Cassidy (Ire) 5 and 4.
Dawn Dewar (Sco) bt Gia Fanelli 5 and 4.
Natalie McNicholas bt Taffy Brower 3 and 2.
Julie Carmichael bt Julie Garner 4 and 2.
Dana Cummings bt Madison Pressel 2 and 1.
Boo Grotvedt Benedikte bt Reggie Parker 2 holes.
SECOND FLIGHT
Quarter-finals
Lisa Schiesinger bt Catherine Baines (Eng) 8 and 6.
Judy Dotten bt Michelle Hartnell 6 and 4.
Claire Grysko bt Mayura Skowronski 2 and 1.
Angel Sze bt Sarah Carty (Ire) 3 and 2.
SENIOR CHAMPIONSHIP
Second round
Carol Semple Thompson bt Natalie Easterly 2 and 1.
Pedggy Woodard bt Linda Pearson 2 and 1.
Diana Schwab bt Barb Pagana 1 hole.
Connie Shorb bt Meredith Wolf 5 and 3.
Carolyn Creekmore bt Cynthia Curry 4 and 2.
Marleine Streit bt Angela Steward 1 hole.
Therese Quinn bt Debe Schwedler 4 and 2.
Cathy Richey bt Janice Wilson 2 holes.

Wednesday 17th January 2007

ELGA Press Release
Lyndsey Hewison joins ELGA
The English Ladies’ Golf Association has appointed a new Press officer to help promote its work.
Lyndsey Hewison is a journalist, with extensive experience in news reporting and feature writing, who now specialises in golf. She is also a single figure handicapper and has played county golf for Norfolk.
She said: “ELGA is working very hard to drive women’s golf forward. It wants more women and girls to play golf and to create a fresh, modern image for the game. These are exciting times and I am delighted to be involved.”

IT'S A SWISS! ROMINGER BROTHER & SISTER WIN CHIVAS SNOW TITLES
European Seniors Tour Order of Merit winner Sam Torrance and supermodel Jodie Kidd added the golf expertise and glamour to the Chivas Snow Golf Championship held in Engadin, St, Moritz.
A record 150 people from over 20 countries took part in the 28th playing of this remarkable event.
In the men’s professional category, Asia Tour rookie and local Swiss professional, Martin Rominger held off last year’s winner, Gonzalo Fernandez-Castano from Spain to take the glory and win the Chivas Regal trophy.
Fernandez-Castano made a confident defence of his title with three pars in the opening holes. However, the local favourite came into form, scoring birdies at the fourth, seventh and eighth.
Rominger, 27 strokes for the nine-hole course, eventually beat the Spaniard by three shots.
Former European Tour pro and BBC commentator Paul Eales finished third with 35.
Martin Rominger commented after his victory, “This year was my first time playing the course as a professional but I have played snow golf here many times as an amateur. I got a little more lucky on these whites plus I have home turf advantage."
Sam Torrance, who had to withdraw from the competition on the day due to a hand injury, was an active spectator, cheering on all the participants.
Korean golfer, J M Lee, who shot 28 (gross score), won the men’s open amateur championship.
Keen golfer Jodie Kidd finished with a score of 45 to finish 10th in the women's open championship which was won by Switzerland’s leading amateur, Caroline Rominger, sister of Martin. She had a score of 40 to make it a Rominger family double.
Jodie Kidd said: “I had such a great time at last year’s Chivas Snow Golf, I jumped at the chance to come back again as soon as I got the invite. Snow golf is very different to 'real' golf. Most of the typical rules go out of the window but it’s lovely to do something so fun, unpredictable and different. That’s why I love it.”
Tournament co-ordinator, Claudio Chiogna was delighted with the event, saying, “The conditions have been difficult this year as it has been so warm which can cause problems in getting the course ready in time. However, despite the difficulties, this year we have had the most entries into the tournament that we’ve had in 28 years”.
The Championship was played on a nine-hole snow course, 1800 metres above sea level, at the foot of Piz Bernina mountain in Engadin, St Moritz .
Martin Riley, Marketing Director for Chivas Regal said, “No-one can deny this is golf’s coolest tournament - played in the Alpine snow by celebrities and professionals alike, with the added glitz and glamour of St. Moritz. Snow golf, part of the Chivas Life, is both inspiring and extraordinary and one of those things that everyone should try at least once in their life”.
Sam Torrance said of the event, “I think snow golf is fantastic - a great idea. I’ve played golf in the frost in Scotland but I’ve never seen anything quite like this. Everyone should have a go and try it."

Tuesday 16th January 2007

STIRLING UNIVERSITY STUDENTS UPSET SEEDINGS IN FLORIDA MATCH-PLAY
Stirling students Claire-Marie Carlton (Fereneze) and Emma Tipping (Sandiway) progressed through to the last 16 at the expense of team-mates Rachel Cassidy from Dublin and Monifieth’s Dawn Dewar respectively in the opening match-play round of the Jones/Doherty tournament at Coral Ridge Country Club, Fort Lauderdale in Florida.
Clare-Marie, the 20th seed, was a 4 and 3 win over Rachel, the 13th seed while Emma also upset the seedings. Seeded No 201, Emma beat the 12th seeded Dawn 5 and 4.
The No 1 seed, last year’s title-winner Alexandra Bodemann fell at the first hurdle, beaten by two holes by the 32nd qualifier, Jordyn Hage.
Ivan Lendl’s teenage daughters Marika and Isabelle, the Nos 2 and 3 seeds won through with varying degrees of ease. Marika was a 5 and 3 winner over Natalie McNicholas but Isabelle had to go to the last green before winning by one hole against Daria Cummings.
A fifth Stirling student, Catherine Baines from England, and independent Irish golfing tourist, Sarah Carty from Dublin had byes in the first round of the second flight of match-play.

JANUARY 26 DEADLINE FOR ENTERING NICK FALDO SERIES IN SCOTLAND
The search for the next generation of European Tour champions is underway as the Faldo Series opens its doors to young golfers throughout Europe, offering them a chance to participate in a tournament that has helped to shape the careers of the likes of Nick Dougherty, James Heath and Oliver Fisher.
By contacting the Faldo Series, youngsters could secure the opportunity to play a number of tournaments and draw inspiration from the six-time Major winner who will captain the next European Ryder Cup side in 2008.
If a youngster plays off a single-figure handicap, then don't delay - get his or her application in now as the deadline (January 26th, 2007) is fast approaching.
Supported by the European Tour, the Professional Golfers Association and the R&A, the Faldo Series enters its 11th season this year.
To celebrate, Nick Faldo has announced yet another impressive schedule, which will combine top-level competition at some of the world’s greatest championship venues with education on every facet of the sport.
The 2007 Series will include a number of new features.
*An extra region has been added, bringing the total to eight nationwide, with two tournaments in each region.
*There will now be four 36 hole regional finals, from which two players per age group will qualify for the Faldo Series grand final.
*There are also a number of exciting new venues being added, including The Roxburghe.
Entrants must be born in 1986 or later and have a handicap according to their age group:
Mixed Under 21 years (handicap limit 4).
Boys U-18 years (handicap limit 5); Boys U-17 years (handicap limit 6); Boys U-16 years (handicap limit 7); Boys U-15 years (handicap limit 8); Girls U-18 years (handicap limit 9).
For those players who are either unsuccessful in the ballot or unable to enter, there is an opportunity to play in the free-to-enter Faldo Series qualifiers. Launched in 2005, this allows hundreds more players the opportunity to benefit from the Faldo Series experience and the chance to qualify for the Faldo Series main schedule…without paying a penny.
If you are interested and would like an application form, please contact:
The Faldo Series,
3 Coda Centre,
189 Munster Rd,
London
SW6 6AW
Telephone: 020 7471 2500
E: series@nickfaldo.com
W: www.nickfaldo.com

NICK FALDO SERIES: 2007 SCOTTISH QUALIFYING DATES AND VENUES
Tuesday, April 17 – Blairgowrie.
Monday, May 28 – Carrick on Loch Lomond.
Thursday, August 23 – Scottish Regional Final at The Roxburghe.

STIRLING STUDENTS QUALIFY BUT MEET EACH OTHER IN MATCH-PLAY
The good news is that four Stirling University students qualified for the championship flight match-play stages of the 75th Jones/Doherty women’s amateur championship at Coral Ridge Country Club in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
The not-so-good news is that the bad luck of the automatic draw has decreed that they will play each other in the first round.
Dawn Dewar from Monifieth was the 12th best of the 32 qualifiers with a 79. She will play Emma Tipping from Sandiway, Cheshire. Emma qualified in 21st place with an 84.
Rachel Cassidy from Dublin, was the 13th qualifier with a round of 79. She will play team-mate Claire-Marie Carlton from Fereneze. Claire-Marie was the 20th qualifier with an 83.
The match-play qualifiers also included two of the daughters of former tennis ace Ivan Lendl. Marika Lendl was the No 2 qualifier with a 72 and Isabelle Lendl earned the No 3 seed status with a 73.
Marika plays off +2.3, Isabelle’s actual handicap ix +0.6. They are both students at the IMG David Leadbetter Golf Academy at Bradenton, Florida.
A fifth Stirling student, England’s Catherine Baines qualified for the second flight of the match-play with a score of 104.
So too did independent golfing tourist Sarah Carty from Dublin with a 91. Sarah qualified sixth of eighth, Catherine last of eight.
The Jones/Doherty match-play championship is the third event on the annual Orange Blossom Tour for female amateur golfers in Florida.

Monday 15th January 2007

ILGU Press Release
ANN BRADSHAW ASSUMES PRESIDENCY
15 January 2007
The 113th I.L.G.U. Annual General Meeting was held at Dunboyne Castle Hotel & Spa on Saturday 13th January 2007.
Ann Bradshaw (Co. Sligo) assumed the Presidency of the Union from Ann Heskin (Douglas) for the next two years. Council members Alexis Graham (Northern), Kitty Horgan (Southern) and Helen Hennessy (Midland) and were replaced by Deirdre Kearney, Phil Byrne and Deirdre Bolger following their three year terms.
Attendees agreed to introduce a nominal subscription fee for junior members and minor modifications to improve understanding of the ILGU Constitution were accepted.
Guest Speaker Ann Marie Hughes from Junior Golf Ireland provided an update on activities at junior level while Pat McGrath of Miele Ireland announced details of their 3 year sponsorship of the National Inter-club Fourball Championships. Frances Wogan (Lucan) won the weekend for two at Druids Glen Marriott kindly sponsored by AA Insurance.

Sunday 14th January 2007

RACHEL SAVES BEST FOR LAST FOR TOP-10 “SALLY” FINISH
Rachel Connor, 16-year-old England girl international from Oldham, shot her best round of the week – a one-over-par 73 – on the final day to claim 10th place and the leading European player spot behind winner Kelly Calkin, a University of Maryland student, in the South Atlantic Ladies amateur golf tournament at Oceanside Country Club, Ormond Beach in Florida.
"With a little bit of luck I would have beaten par in the final round," said Rachel.
"I hit the green on the 14th with my approach but the ball spun back into the water and I took double bogey."
Miss Connor, daughter of Manchester Golf Club's Scottish-born professional, Brian, has been staying at the Florida summer home of her coach Roger Dougherty, father of European Tour player Nick Doughtery.
Sally been playing regularly with Nick, who has been a friend since childhood.
"I'm happy that Rachel finished in the top 20 in the four events (two of them for juniors, the other two for women) she played over the past four weeks," said Roger.
Miss Connor has a brother Scott who is a professional and she is keen to become the third pro in the family - but first she wants to be selected for a Curtis Cup match. She has time on her side.
Rachel, who won't be 17 until July, had rounds of 75, 82, 78 and 73 for an aggregate of 308 in this the second event of the annual Orange Blossom Tour for female amateurs.
Emma Tipping from Sandiway, Chester was the highest-placed finisher of the six-strong Stirling University squad taking part.
Emma had rounds of 80, 83, 73 and 78 to share 17th place on 314.
Claire-Marie Carlton (Fereneze) and Rachael Cassidy from Dublin shared 34th place on 328. Claire-Marie had scores of 82, 89, 80 and 77 while Rachel had rounds of 85, 88, 75 and 80.
Dawn Dewar (Monifieth) finished 47th on 336 with scores of 88, 84, 79 and 85.
The final two Stirling University players, England’s Catherine Baines and Florida-born Courtnay Montgomery filled the last two places in the field of 89. Catherine scored 101, 99, 107 and 93 for 400 while Courtnay had 103, 101, 97 and 103 for 404.
Sarah Carty from Dublin – not a Stirling student – finished joint 43rd on 334 with scores of 78, 84, 80 and 82.
The event was won by University of Maryland junior student Kelly Calkin whose golfing performances have taken off since she changed her clubs six months ago. Since then she has brought her average score down from 80 to 73.
When overnight leader, high school girl Natalie Sheary, who is bound for Wake Forest University in the autumn, bogeyed the first five holes of the final round, Miss Calkin swept past and when she holed a 40ft birdie putt at the ninth, Kelly led the field by six shots.
In the end Kelly matched the par of 72 for a four-stroke win with a seven-over-par total of 295 after earlier rounds of 74, 76 and 73.
Miss Calkin was watched from a buggy by her mother, a teaching professional who can no longer swing a golf club due to multiple sclerosis.
Fellow American Jessica Yadloczky leapfrogged a bunch of players to claim second place on 299 after returning a 68, the only sub-par round of the four days.
Natalie Sheary subsided into third place on 300.
US Curtis Cup player and defending champion Virginia Grimes shared fourth place on 301.
United States Curtis Cup captain Carol Semple Thompson had a total of 316.
+ The tournament is better known among players as the “Sally.”
SOUTH ATLANTIC LADIES AMATEUR TOURNAMENT
Oceanside Country Club, Ormond Beach, Florida.
LEADING FINAL TOTALS
Par 288 (4 x 72)
Players from US unless stated
295 Kelly Calkin 74 76 73 72.
299 Jessica Yadloczky 74 81 76 68.
300 Natalie Sheary 76 74 72 78.
301 Virginia Grimes 77 74 77 73, Kathy Hartwiger 74 76 79 72, Susan Choi 77 80 73 71.
304 Kira Meixner (Canada) 79 73 75 77.
3076 Alexandra Bodemann 77 79 73 77, Tiffany Chudy 75 74 81 76.
308 Rachel Connor (England) 75 82 78 73.
Other totals:
314 Emma Tipping (England) 80 83 73 78.
316 Carol Semple Thompson 82 78 77 78.
328 Claire-Marie Carlton (Scotland) 82 89 80 77, Rachel Cassidy (Ireland) 85 88 75 80.
334 Sarah Carty (Ireland) 78 84 80 82.
336 Dawn Dewar (Scotland) 88 84 79 85.
400 Catherine Baines (England) 101 99 107 93.
404 Courtnay Montgomery (US) 103 101 97 103.

Saturday 13th January 2007

MORE DETAILS ABOUT THE CYPRUS TOURNAMENTS IN APRIL
By Colin Farquharson
Linda Jones, one of the organisers of the Cyprus national open championships from April 16 to 20 at Secret Valley Golf Club, has been in touch today with more information.
Scroll down to today's article to see how you can go about taking a week's holiday on the island of Cyprus -and play some competitive golf as well.
Linda says that the women's open practice day is on Monday, April 16, followed by the 36-hole tournament on the Tuesday and Wednesday.
The men's practice day in on Thursday, April 19 with their 54-hole tournament running from Friday to Sunday. The week finishes with a gala prizegiving dinner, which is covering by your entry fee.
"Secret Valley golf course is approx 15 - 20 min from the centre of Paphos. There are numerous flights from Scotland that do land at Paphos," says Linda.
"Car hire is readily available, and we do drive on the same side of the road as the UK, therefore it does make life a lot easier for all.
"Hotel accommodation varies from two-star to the very best four and five-star hotels. Paphos is in one of the best locations in Cyprus, plenty of local tavernas, sightseeing, and some excellent beaches.
"In a nutshell, it is a perfect holiday location and just to add to that some great golf, especially in the sun. We do hope to see you all here in April !!"
**If you want to make inquiries about playing in either the men's or women's Cyprus open amateur tournaments direct to Linda Jones, her mobile number is: 00357 99088964 and her landline and fax number is: 0035726 940763.

Watson warms up in U.S.
Sally Watson was playing for Scotland's national under-16 basketball team when her hoops career was ended by a knee injury.
No problem. Now Watson, 15, is on Scotland's national golf squad..........
Read this article by By SEAN MARTIN, Assistant Editor, Golfweek.

CYPRUS GOLF FEDERATION WANTS YOU TO PLAY IN THERE IN APRIL
By COLIN FARQUHARSON
Received an E-mail message this evening from a Linda Jones of Paphos on the island of Cyprus.
I think she has something to do with the Cyprus Golf Federation because she is seeking my help to bring to the attention of male and female amateur golfers in Scotland, England, Ireland and Wales that the Cyprus women’s open amateur championship (36 holes stroke-play) and the Cyprus men’s open amateur championship (54 holes stroke-play) are being played one after another in the same week in April.
The women’s championship starts on Tuesday, April 17 after a practice day and the men’s championship tees off on Friday, April 20 after a Thursday practice day.
The Cyprus Golf Federation has all the details on www.cfg.org.cy
Apparently, if you fly by Cyprus Airways you can get a 10% discount.
Cyprus Airways does not fly in or out of Glasgow or Edinburgh. Manchester is the nearest airport.
Don’t be scared off by the fact that these are the national championships of a foreign country.
The handicap limit for the men’s competition is 12 and for the ladies it is 24.
There are three handicap sections in the prize list fori the women’s championship – up to 9, 10 to 17, and 18 to 24.
The women’s entry fee of CYP £80 (that’s 80 Cyprus £s and the rate of exchange is £1 Sterling = 0.86904 CYP), covers three rounds of golf and a ticket to the gala prizegiving dinner on the closing Sunday night (April 22).
The venue for both tournaments is Secret Valley Golf Club.
I’ve asked Linda Jones to give me more details with regard to things like accommodation and where the golf course is in relation to the airport and the possible hotels.
If you are interested, have a look at the Cyprus Golf Federation website and key in Cyprus Airways to your Search Machine and see how much it would cost you to get there and back.
When Linda comes back with more details, I shall pass them on.
Oh, by the way, she says that the weather at the moment on Cyprus is “lovely, warm and sunny.”

RACHEL FAILS TO MAKE MOST OF BALMY BREEZE IN FLORIDA
England girl international Rachel Connor, 17-year-old daughter of the Scottish-born Manchester Golf Club professional, was in joint 13th place going into the fourth and final round of the South Atlantic Ladies amateur golf tournament at Oceanside Country Club, Ormond Beach in Florida.
Rachel, from Oldham, did not make the most of perfect scoring conditions – temperatures in the mid-70s with a slight breeze coming off the ocean – for she had a third-round 78 after opening with a 75 and then and 83.
She is on 19-over-par 235 – 13 strokes behind the leader, another teenager, Natalie Sheary from Hartford, Connecticutt. Natalie had the best score of the third day, a par-matching 72 for a six-over-par tally of 222. She leads by one shot from another American Kelly Calkin.
Curtis Cup player and title-holder Virginia Grimes is in fourth place on 228, having lost her momentum with a third-round 77.
Halfway leader Tiffanyy Chudy fell off her pedestal with an 81 to drop to joint seventh place on 230.
Of the Stirling University students’ touring party, Emma Tipping from Sandiway, Cheshire, was best placed in a share of 16th place on 236 after a very good third-round 73 for 236.
Dubliner Rachel Cassidy is joint 36th after a 75 for 248.
Dawn Dewar (Monifieth) and Claire-Marie Carlton (Fereneze) are both on 251, Dawn after a third-round 79 and Claire-Marie an 80.
The last two Stirling students, England’s Catherine Baines (301) and Florida-born Courtnay Montgomery (307) are lying 89th and 91st in the field of 91.
Sarah Carty from Dublin – not a Stirling University student – had a third-round 90 to be sharing 44th place on 252.
The South Atlantic Ladies Amateur tournament – better known as the “Sally” – is the second event on the annual Orange Blossom Tour for female amateurs in Florida.
SOUTH ATLANTIC LADIES AMATEUR TOURNAMENT
Oceanside Country Club, Ormond Beach, Florida.
Leading third-round totals
Par 216 (3 x 72)
Players from US unless stated
222 Natalie Sheary 76 74 72.
223 Kelly Calkin 74 76 73.
227 Kira Meixner (Canada) 79 73 75.
228 Virginia Grimes 77 74 77.
229 Kathy Hartwiger 74 76 79, Alexandra Bodemann 77 79 73.
230 Tiffany Chud 75 74 81, Susan Choi 77 80 73.
231 Tonya Choate 75 79 77, Jessica Yadloczky 74 81 76.
233 Rachel Williams 87 71 75.
234 Boo Brynestad-Grotvedt 82 75 77.
235 Rachel Connor (England) 75 82 78, C J Kim 80 79 76, Kristin Wetzel 81 81 73.
Other scores:
236 Emma Tipping (England) 80 83 73 (jt 16th).
238 Carol Semple Thompson (US) 82 79 77 (21st).
248 Rachel Cassidy (Ireland) 85 88 75 (jt 36th).
251 Dawn Dewar (Scotland) 88 84 79, Claire-Marie Carlton (Scotland) 82 89 80 (jt 40th).
252 Sarah Carty (Ireland) 78 84 80.
301 Courtnay Montgomery (US) 103 101 97 (89th).
307 Catherine Baines (England) 101 99 107.

Friday 12th January 2007

Seventh course at the Home of Golf named
It is only the seventh time in more than 600 years of history that a golf course has been named at the Home of Golf but today (Fri) a new name was added to the canon of courses headed up by the world famous Old Course.
After a naming competition which attracted more than 4000 entries from around the world the name of the new St Andrews Links course is the Castle Course.
The name reflects the history of the headland to the south-east of St Andrews where Kinkell Castle once stood in the middle ages.
The winner of the naming competition who suggested the Castle Course is Edwin Burtnett from America. He was selected after a random draw of all those who had suggested the winning names. Mr Burtnett will be invited to the VIP opening ceremony of the seventh course next year and will be given the opportunity to play one of the first rounds on the new course.
The decision on the new name was taken at a meeting of the Trustees of St Andrews Links Trust after a careful selection process. The Trustees considered a shortlist of names which was compiled by the St Andrews Links Course No 7 Working Party. The Trustees were seeking a name which was easy to understand, relevant to the course and St Andrews and which fitted in with the Links Trust’s family of names.
Alastair Dempster, chairman of Trustees, said, “In golfing terms this is a major decision and an historic announcement. It is not every day that a new course at St Andrews is named. In reaching this decision, we were acutely aware that the name of the new course would have to stand the test of time and remain appropriate to a world famous golfing destination.
“In selecting the Castle Course as the name I think we have made an excellent choice. I am sure golf fans around the world, many of whom entered the naming competition, will have their own views and will debate its merits for years to come but I am confident that people will appreciate the Castle Course as a fitting identity for a younger sister to the Old Course.”
The naming competition ran throughout last November through the www.standrews.org.uk website and attracted a massive field of entries from every continent including countries as diverse as Australia, Argentina, Thailand, Canada and Iceland.
The Castle Course has been designed by David McLay Kidd, a Scot who has gained worldwide renown for his work on courses such as Bandon Dunes in Oregon, Nanea in Hawaii and Queenwood in Surrey. The 220 acre clifftop course is expected to open for full play next spring and each hole will feature five tees to cater for all levels of ability. The par 71 layout will range in length from 5,600 to 7,200 yards. As with the existing six St Andrews Links courses the Castle Course will be public.
Alan McGregor, general manager of the Links Trust, said, “It has been an exciting process waiting to learn what the name for our seventh course would be. We were extremely pleased with the huge response we received for the naming competition and I would like to thank everyone who took the time to enter and play their part in the making of golf history.
“The Castle Course promises to be a wonderful course which we believe will attract golfers from all over the world with its quality and its spectacular views of St Andrews Bay, the Grampian mountains and out to the North Sea. We will begin taking bookings for play next year on the Castle Course and I am sure that, like me, many golfers will be looking forward to playing it for themselves.”
[I personally suggested "The Kidd's course" which I though was pretty clever but obviously no one else did! - G]

300 up for world record hopeful
WORLD record hopeful Glenn Turner is celebrating playing at 300 different 18 hole golf courses in just 292 days.
The 47-year-old from Preston is now into the tenth month of his year long record attempt, and looks set to achieve his target of playing over 365 courses during that period, despite the current wet and windy weather.
Glenn has played at courses in Spain, Scotland, Ireland, Wales and England during the past ten months and is set to finish his tour on March 31 at Nigel Mansell’s Woodbury Park Golf Course in Devon.
The professional golf tutor has taken a year off coaching , left his family behind for 12 months and travelled across the country in a customised motorhome in an attempt to bring a new world record to Britain and raise £1 million for the 43 hospices which make up the Association of Children’s Hospices and the Rhys Daniels Trust
Glenn set the century milestone at Rochester and Cobham Golf Club in Kent and said
“To achieve this milestone is a fantastic boost. The past ten months have been hard work on my feet and back, especially as I have walked the equivalent of 80 marathons so far on the greens so far and drove 16,800 miles in the motorhome.
“But I’ve met so many fantastic people along the way that it has made me even more determined to set the world record and raise a large amount of money for the thoroughly deserving charities. My next milestone will be setting the new world record on March 31.”
People can donate to Glenn’s charities by texting GOLF to 64446. The text will cost £1 and the amount going to charity will depend on your mobile phone network. Alternatively, visit www.1bidwins.com for a chance to win Glenn’s motorhome or golf buggy.
Visit www.worldrecordgolftour.co.uk to find out which courses Glenn will be playing at during the rest of his tour.

SCOTS GET CALL INTO WOMEN'S WORLD CUP FIELD
Scotland, runners-up to Sweden last year, have received a late call into the field of 22 teams for the Women's World Cup at Sun City, South Africa from January 19 to 21.
Janice Moodie and Mhairi McKay will be the Scotland pairing.
Janice and Catriona Matthew finished second 12 months ago. Both have had babies within the past few months - Catriona only a week or two ago - and because Scotland did not have a player high enough in the money tables to qualify, they did not get an invitation from the organisers.
Now, with the withdrawal of the Philippines, a space became available - and Scotland are in the field.

RACHEL DROPS DOWN TO SHARE 10TH PLACE IN THE “SALLY”
Oldham’s England girls international player Rachel Connor, pictured right, the leading British player overnight in the 81st South Atlantic Ladies amateur golf tournament at Oceanside Country Club, Ormond Beach, Florida, dropped down to a share of 10th place at the halfway stage of the 72-hole stroke-play tournament.
Rachel, 17-year-old daughter of Brian Connor, the Scottish-born Manchester Golf Club professional, has had rounds of 75 and 82 for 157 in this the second event – known as the “Sally” – of the annual Orange Blossom Tour in Florida.
She is eight shots behind leader Tiffany Chud from Miramir Florida. Tiffany is on five-over-par 149 after rounds of 75 and 74 and leads by one shot from fellow Americans Kelly Calkin, Kathy Hartwiger and Natalie Sheary.
US Curtis Cup player Virginia Grimes, defending champion and a two-time winner of the title, has taken closer order. She has moved up to fifth place on 151 with 77 and 74.
Sarah Carty from Dublin is in joint 20th place with scores of 78 and 84 for 162.
Emma Tipping from Sandiway, Cheshire is leading the Stirling University contingent in equal 25th place with 80 and 83 for 163.
Next come Claire-Marie Carlton (Fereneze) in joint 42nd place on 171 with 82 and 89, followed by Dawn Dewar (Monifieth) in joint 4th place on 172 (88-84) and Dublin’;s Rachel Cassidy in tied 50th place with 85 and 88 for 173.
The last two Stirling students, Catherine Baines from England and Florida-born Courtnay Montgomery, are on 200 and 204 respectively.
SOUTH ATLANTIC LADIES AMATEUR CHAMPIONSHIP
Oceanside CC, Ormond Beach, Florida.
Leading halfway totals
Par 144 (2 x 72)
Players from US unless stated
149 Tiffany Chud 75 74.
150 Kelly Calkin 74 76, Kathy Hartwiger 74 76, Natalie Sheary 76 74.
151 Virginia Grimes 77 74.
152 Kira Meixner (Can) 79 73.
154 Tonya Choate 75 79.
155 Jessica Yadloczky 74 81.
156 Alexadra Bodemann 77 79.
157 Rachel Connor (Eng) 75 82, Susan Choi 77 80, Boo Brynestadt-Grotvedt 82 75.
Other scores:
161 Carol S Thompson 82 69.
162 Sarah Carty (Ire) 78 84.
163 Emma Tipping (Eng) 80 83.
171 Claire-Marie Carlton (Sco) 82 89.
172 Dawn Dewar (Sco) 88 84.
173 Rachel Cassidy (Ire) 85 88.
200 Catherine Baines (Eng) 101 99.
204 Courtnay Montgomery (US) 103 101.

Thursday 11th January 2007

RACHEL LEADS BRITISH PLAYERS IN FIRST ROUND OF “SALLY”
England girl international Rachel Connor, 17-year-old daughter of Manchester Golf Club’s Scots-born professional, was only one shot off the lead at the end of the first round of the South Atlantic Ladies Amateur golf championship – better known as the “Sally” - at Oceanside Golf & Country Club, Ormond Beach in Florida.
Over 72 holes of stroke play, this is the second event of the annual Orange Blossom Tour for women amateurs in Florida.
Joint fourth, Rachel had a three-over-par 75 in far from easy scoring conditions, which was reflected on the scoreboard with three Americans sharing the lead on 74 and only 19 players in the field of 93 scoring 80 or better.
United States Curtis Cup player Virginia Grimes, 42, winner of this title in 1998 and again last year, had to settle for a 77, but that was still good enough to put her in joint eighth place overnight.
Sarah Carty from Dublin had a 78 and Emma Tipping from Sandiway, Cheshire did best of the touring Stirling University squad. She had an 80.
Three other Stirling students scored in the 80s - West of Scotland champion Claire-Marie Carlton (Fereneze) had an 82;
Dubliner Rachel Cassidy, a member of The Island Golf Club, an 85, and former Angus women’s champion Dawn Dewar (Monifieth) and 88.
The last two of the Stirling contingent, Catherine Baines from England and Florida-born Courtnay Montgomery failed to break 100. Catherine scored 101 and Courtnay 103.
FIRST ROUND SCOREBOARD
Par 72
Players from US unless stated.
74 Jessica Yadloczky. Kelly Calkin, Kathy Hartwiger.
75 Rachel Connor (Eng), Tonya Choate, Tiffany Chudy.
76 Natalie Sheary.
77 Alexandra Bodemann, Susan Choi, Virginia Grimes, Susan Nam.
78 Sarah Carty (Ire), Taffy Brower.
79 Kira Meixner (Can).
80 Emma Tipping (Eng), Jill Hardy (Can), C J Kim, Rebecca Kuhn, Miranda Orr.

Other scores included:
82 Claire-Marie Carlton (Sco), Carol S Thompson (US).
85 Rachel Cassidy (Ire).
88 Dawn Dewar (Sco).
101 Catherine Baines (Sco).
103 Courtnay Montgomery (US).

Wednesday 10th January 2007

SLGA Ltd AGM, Saturday 20th January 11:00am Station Hotel, Perth.
If you are looking for a day out... come to Perth for the SLGA Ltd AGM at the Station Hotel on Saturday 20th January at 11:00am. This is the first time it has been held on a Saturday, with the hope that it will attract the youngsters and working golfers as well as stalwarts who always attend. If you have never been before because your job precludes it... here is your chance to see and hear how much work the SLGA puts into Scottish Ladies golf.
And, if nothing else, it is always a great chance to catch up with friends, and Perth has some very good restaurants and shops.

MAUREEN ORCUTT (99), LAST LINK WITH BIRTH OF CURTIS CUP, DIES
By COLIN FARQUHARSON
The oldest surviving Curtis Cup match player, Maureen Orcutt, has died at the age of 99 at Durham, North Carolina.
Maureen, born on Park Avenue, New York, played for the Americans in the forerunner to the Curtis Cup – an informal Britain versus United States match at Sunningdale in 1930.
The Curtis Cup was formalised after that and Maureen played for the United States in the first four one-day matches before World War II – 1932 at Wentworth, 1934 at Chevy Chase, Maryland, 1936 over the King’s Course, Gleneagles and in 1938 at Essex, MA.
She won five of the eight Curtis Cup ties she played. One of her defeats was in 1938 when, partnered by Estelle Lawson Page, she lost a foursomes tie by two holes to the legendary Scottish player, Helen Holm and Clarrie Tiernan.
Also figuring in the 1938 match, for Great Britain & Ireland, was the English champion, Phyllis Wade (later Wylie), who has lived in Troon for many years. “Phil,” as she is better known, is in her 96th year and now becomes the oldest surviving Curtis Cup player.
MAUREEN KNEW THEM ALL
During her long amateur career, Maureen Orcutt played exhibition matches with and against Bobby Jones and competitively against Joyce Wethered and Glenna Collette Vare. She was on first-name terms with the likes of Babe Zaharias, Cecil Leitch, Gene Sarazen and Sam Snead. She knew them all.
In the 1920s and 1930s, Maureen was one of the world’s premier female amateur golfers and won dozens of tournaments but could never manage to land the United States women’s amateur title. She lost twice in the final, in 1927 and again in 1936 when the English player, Pam Barton, beat her 4 and 3.
When Maureen won her first USGA senior women’s amateur title in 1962 – when she had been in her 55th year – she was reduced to tears.
“It was the thrill of my life finally to have won a United States title, ” she said later. She was to win it again in 1966.
Maureen was also a pioneering sports journalist in the days when female reporters were few and far between. She followed her father, the music critic at the “New York Tribune” and the “New York Times,” into journalism.
She covered tournaments for the “New York World’’ and wrote a sports column for the “New York Times.” She would often report on golf tournaments in which she herself was playing.
She was a severe critic of modern-day golf journalism, frequently writing letters to sports editors or phoning television stations to complain about their golf coverage.
“Next time, send somebody to cover the Greensboro Open who knows something about golf,” she told one newspaper editor over the telephone.
She spent her later years in North Carolina and still played golf two or three times a week well into her 80s.
With the death of Maureen Orcutt, the last link with the birth of the Curtis Cup match has gone.
+Picture shows Maureen Orcutt in action in the 1936 Curtis Cup match at Gleneagles (courtesy of the United States Golf Association)

[Pulled this from our brother site scottishgolfview.com - G]
US RYDER CUP SLUMP HAS ITS ROOTS IN THEIR COLLEGE SYSTEM,
says JIM FARMER
By COLIN FARQUHARSON
R&A honorary professional Jim Farmer, captain of the GB&I team of club pros who won the PGA Cup two years ago, made a long-range forecast to me at today's PGA Scottish Region lunch at Gleneagles.
“It could be years before the United States regain the Ryder Cup because their top players of the future are not coming through the college ranks as they used to,” said Jim.
He says the situation in the United States university golf squads is similar to the situation in the Scottish Premier League – so many players are imported that the home-grown talent is being snuffed out.
“It all started years ago when some of the American colleges started signing the odd top prospect from Sweden, Spain, Australia or wherever. But that snowballed to such an extent that most of the US college teams are now top-heavy with ‘foreigners.”
“Look at the result at Prestwick in the last Palmer Cup students’ match between the United States and Europe – the Europeans thrashed them.
NOT IMPRESSED
“I go over to the States once a year with a team of R&A bursars and I have to say I am not impressed with the American college players I see. Many of them have awful, four-knuckle grips. All they want to do is knock the ball out of sight,” said Jim.
“And they can do that. But ask them to play a threequarter swing shot under the wind, or any shot that requires a bit of skill and feel for it, and they have no idea how to play it.
“Many American colleges don’t have professional golf coaches as we would know them. They are administrators. So quite often the university golf team players are left to their own devices with nobody telling them how they should be gripping or swinging a club.”
Now you might say that the United States still managed to beat Great Britain & Ireland in the last Walker Cup match at Chicago. But Walker Cup line-ups are not restricted to college players.
Backing up Jim Farmer’s claim is the fact that two Europeans have won the last two United States amateur championships – Italian Edoardo Molinari in 2005 and our own Richie Ramsay in 2006.
Farmer, in fact, thinks that if the European dominance of the Ryder Cup matches continues, the top players, like Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson, will not want to go on playing for a team of losers.
BLEAK US OUTLOOK
“Then the United States will be in trouble. The American public don’t like losers and they could finish up in a few years with (a) nobody wanting to play in the Ryder Cup and (b) nobody wanting to watch the matches in the United States,” said Jim.
My own feeling is we should show mercy on the Americans by reverting to a Great Britain & Ireland team instead of throwing the might of All-Europe at them!
Only kidding, I think ….

Tuesday 9th January 2007

SALLY SET TO CLIMB US UNDER-18 RANKINGS
Sally Watson's fourth-place finish in the Harder Hall Women's Invitational tournament in Florida at the weekend should see her climb the US GolfWeek Under-18 girl rankings.
The 15-year-old from South Queensferry, a student at the David Leadbetter Golf Academy since August, was ranked 22nd before the Orange Blossom Tour event at Sebring.
Quite a few of those ranked above her finished behind Sally in the "Harder Hall."
Ten of those above her in the GolfWeek Under-18 girl rankings are in their final season of junior golf and only two of them are not from the United States.
If you want to have a look at the GolfWeek rankings, log on to:
www.juniorgolfextra.com/juniorgolf/ratings/girls.asp

Monday 8th January 2007

SALLY FOURTH ON DEBUT IN HARDER HALL INVITATIONAL
Debutante Sally Watson finished a creditable fourth on three-over-par 291 in the 52nd Harder Hall Women’s Invitational golf tournament at Harder Hall Country Club, Sebring in Florida.
Competing over the 6,151yd, par-72 course in the first event of the annual Orange Blossom Tour for female amateurs, the 15-year-old South Queensferry girl, a student at the David Leadbetter Academy in Bradenton, Florida had rounds of 72, 73, 72 and 74.
Rachel Connor, 17-year-old daughter of the Scottish-born Manchester Golf Club professional, Brian Connor, slipped down to 14th place in the final round after being in the top 10 through the first three rounds.
Rachel from Oldham had scores of 70, 78, 74 and 78 for 290.
Tournament winner was University of Virginia student Leah Wigger from Louisville, Kentucky. Leah led from start to finish with scores of 69, 73, 67 and 71 for eight-under—ar 280 and a three-stroke victory from Auburn University student Candace Schepperle.
Former tennis ace Ivan Lendl’s teenage daughter Isabelle had the second lowest score of the final round – a two-under-par 70 – and she finished sixth with 296.
United States Curtis Cup captain and tournament director Carol Semple Thompson had scores of 80, 74 74 and 77 to share 19th place on 305.
Sally Watson’s older teenager sister Rebecca had rounds of 83, 86, 75 and 81 for 325.
SCOREBOARD
HARDER HALL WOMEN’S INVITATIONAL
Harder Hall CC, Sebring, Florida.
LEADING FINAL TOTALS
Par 288 (4 x 72). 6,151yd.
Players from US unless stated.
280 Leah Wigger 69 73 67 71.
283 Candace Schepperle 70 74 70 69.
290 Jacqui Concolino 72 73 69 76.
291 Sally Watson (Sco) 72 73 72 74.
293 Megan Grehan 77 74 70 72.
296 Isabelle Lendl 75 76 75 70.
Other totals:
290 Rachel Connor (Eng) 70 78 74 78.
305 Carol S Thompson 80 74 74 77.
325 Rebecca Watson (Sco) 83 86 75 81.

Sunday 7th January 2007

SALLY (4th), RACHEL (7th) AS PACE HEATS UP IN FLORIDA
Sally Watson matched the par of 72 in the third round – but so hot was the scoring in the Harder Hall Women’s Invitational tournament that the 15-year-old Scottish girl actually lost ground on the leaders!
But Miss Watson still has reasons to be cheerful on her debut in the event at Harder Hall Country Club, Sebring, which tees off the annual Orange Blossom Tour in Florida.
Sally, beaten finalist in the British girls championship last year when she won the Daily Telegraph girls’ national final at Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club, is lying fourth going into the final round after earlier rounds of 72 and 73.
She has a 54-hole tally of 217.
Another great British prospect in the top 10 is 17-year-old Rachel Connor from Oldham, daughter of the Scottish born Manchester Golf Club professional, Brian Connor.
Rachel is in seventh place aftere scores of 70, 78 and 74 for 222.
COURSE RECORD
Leah Wigger (University of Virigina), who has led the field since the first day, finished her third round with a five under par 67 which tied the course record set by Beth Bauer in 1999.
However Arizona University’s Alison Walshe had finished earlier and set a new course record at 66. With five birdies and an eagle, Walshe jumped into fifth place in the tournament - but 10 strokes back of the leader.
Wigger extended her overnight two-stroke lead to a commanding five-shot advantage with 18 holes to play. She began with three birdies and a bogey on her first nine.
Her strength this week seems to be the ability to follow a bogey with a birdie – which she did twice in the third round. She birdied the final three holes to add a 67 to her opening scores of 69 and 73, putting her clear of the field on seven-under-par 209.0
Southeastern Conference rivals Jacqui Concolino of Vanderbilt and Candace Schepperle of Auburn both shot under par – Jacqui a 69, and Candace a 70 – but, just like Sally Watson, they could not make up any ground on the leader
Sally’s older sister, Rebecca, now competing in the Second Flight after scores of 83 and 86, returned to form with a third-round 75 for 244.
HOW THEY STAND WITH ONE ROUND TO GO
Par 216 (3 x 72). Players from US unless stated
209 Leah Wigger 69 73 67.
214 Jacqui Concolino 72 73 69, Candace Schepperle 70 74 70.
217 Sally Watson (Sco) 72 73 72.
219 Alison Walshe 78 75 66.
221 Megan Greham 77 74 70.
222 Rachel Connor (Eng) 70 78 74.
223 Lauren Hunt 78 72 73.
224 Lucy Nunn 76 73 75.
225 Tonya Choate 81 70 74, Diane Lang 73 77 75, Garrett Phillips 75 76 74.
226 Benedikte Brynestad-Grotve 76 77 73, Isabelle Lendl 75 76 75.
Other score:
228 Carol S Thompson 80 74 74
244 Rebecca Watson (Sco) 83 86 75.

Saturday 6th January 2007

SALLY AND RACHEL IN TOP SIX AT HALFWAY STAGE IN FLORIDA
Sally Watson from South Queensferry and Rachel Connor from Oldham, two of Britain’s best teenage golf prospects, are doing very well in their debuts on the Harder Hall Women’s Invitational, the first tournament on the annual Orange Blossom Tour in Florida.
Sally, a 15-year-old student at the David Leadbetter Academy in Bradenton, Florida, has had rounds of 72 and 73 for a one-over-par tally of 145 at Harder Hall Country Club, Sebring.
She is sharing third place at the halfway stage of the 72-hole stroke-play tournament, only three shots behind the leader, University of Viriginia student Leah Wigger (69-73)
Rachel, 16-year-old daughter of Manchester Golf Club’s Scottish-born professional Brian Connor, followed up a sparkling opening round of 70 with a 78. She is sharing fourth place on 148.
Sally Watson’s older sister Rebecca has shot 83 and 86 for 169.
Sarah Carty from Dublin has had 88 and 86 for 174.
Carol Thompson, the United States Curtis Cup team captain and chairman of the tournament-organising committee, has had an 80 and 74 for 154.
HARDER HALL WOMEN’S INVITATIONAL
Harder Hall CC, Sebring, Florida.
LEADING HALFWAY TOTALS
Par 144 (2 x 72).
Players from US unless stated.
142 Leah Wigger 69 73.
144 Candace Schepperle 70 74.
145 Sally Watson (Sco) 72 73, Jacqui Concolino 72 72.
148 Rachel Connor (Eng) 70 78, Cindel Gwynn 74 74.
149 Lucy Nunn 76 73.
150 Lauren Doughtie 76 74, Lauren Hunt 78 72, Diane Lang 73 77.
151 Taffy Brower 77 74, Tonya Choate 81 70, Megan Grehan 77 74, Isabelle Lendl 75 76.
Other scores:
154 Carol S Thompson 80 74.
169 Rebecca Watson (Sco) 83 86.
174 Sarah Carty (Ire) 88 86.

RACHAEL FROM DUBLIN IS TOP STIRLING STUDENT IN “DIXIE”
Rachael Cassidy, 19, pictured right, from Dublin had the highest final placing of the three Stirling University students who survived the halfway cut in the 76th Dixie amateur golf championships at Palm Aire Country Club, Pompano Beach, north of Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
Rachael had rounds of 77, 78, 79 and 74 for an aggregate of 308 over the par-71 course.
Rachael, a member of The Island Golf Club, did particularly well to return her best score of 74 in strong winds on the final day. Miss Cassidy finished joint 29th behind the winner, Florida teenager Vicky Hurst who scored 71, 71, 77 and 71 for six-over-par 290, which included a hole in one in one of the earlier rounds.
Vicky from Melbourne, Florida won by one shot from long-time leader Mayule Tomimbang (Kissimmee, Florida) who holed a 25ft birdie putt on the last green for a closing 74 and a total of 291.
Eleven-year-old Alexis Thompson from Coral Gables, Florida, the youngest ever player in the tournament’s long history, tied for third place on 293.
Stirling student and former Scottish schoolgirls title-winner Claire-Marie Carlton, a member of Fereneze Golf Club, shot 77, 689, 77 and 79 for 312 and a share of 34th place.
A third Stirling student, Gavin Dear (Murrayshall Golf Club) from Alyth,finished joint 43rd in the men’s championship. Gavin had rounds of 69, 77, 75 and 74 for a total of 295 – 20 shots behind the winner, Mu Hu, from the aptly-named Florida town of Celebration.
Mu Hu, inspired by a practice round last week by former US PGA Tour champion Andy Bean (winner of the 1975 Dixie amateur men’s title), had scores of 68, 66, 70 and 71. He led from start to finish for a three-stroke victory with his nine-under-par total.
The leading European was England international Edward Richardson from East Sussex. He finished joint 14th on 286.
DIXIE AMATEUR CHAMPIONSHIPS
Palm Aire Country Club, Pompano Beach, Florida.
LEADING FINAL TOTALS
MEN (Par 284: 4 x 71)
Players from US unless stated
275 Mu Hu 68 66 70 71.
278 Bud Cauley 69 67 69 73.
280 Lion Kim 71 67 69 73, Ji Moon 74 65 69 72, Minghao Wang 68 71 73 68.
281 Greg Huxman 69 66 70 76, Gator Todd 70 66 73 72.
Other totals:
284 Xavier Feyaerts (Belg) 69 73 73 69 (11th).
286 Edward Richardson (Eng) 71 70 71 74 (jt 14th).
295 Gavin Dear (Sco) 69 77 75 74 (jt 43rd).
296 Florian Fritsch (Ger) 74 71 74 77 (jt 46th).
297 Patrick Hanauer (Ger) 75 69 76 77 (jt 49th).
298 Roger Furrer (Switz) 75 72 74 77 (jt 50th).
WOMEN (Par 284: 4 x 71)
Players from US unless stated
290 Vicky Hurst 71 71 77 71.
291 Mayule Tomimbang 67 74 76 74.
293 Alexis Thompson 69 74 75 75, Alina Lee 72 72 74 75.
294 Michelle Shin 74 68 77 75.
296 Jane Rah 73 75 74 74, Cydney Clanton 75 77 72 72, Megan McChrystal 74 72 73 77.
297 Tiffany Chudy 75 73 74 75, Christina Hirano 73 78 68 78.
Other totals:
302 Laura Gonzalez-Escallon (Bel) 78 71 75 78 (jt 18th).
308 Rachael Cassidy (Ire) 77 78 79 74 (jt 29th).
312 Claire-Marie Carlton (Sco) 77 79 77 79 (jt 34th).

Friday 5th January 2007

CLAIRE-MARIE BEST PLACED STIRLING STUDENT IN FLORIDA
Stirling students Claire-Marie Carlton from Fereneze and Rachael Cassidy from Dublin were lying joint 29th and 32nd going into the fourth and final round of the 76th Dixie women’s amateur golf championship at Palm-Aire Country Club, Pompano Beach, north of Fort Lauderdale in Florida.
The only other Stirling student with a live interest in the tournament, Murrayshall Golf Club member Gavin Dear from Scone, was sharing 46th place in the men’s championship.
Strong winds made scoring difficult in the third round, although there were one or two exceptional sub-par scores.
Claire-Marie has had rounds so far of 77, 79 and 77 for a 54-hole tally of 233 over the par-71 course.
Rachel has shot 77, 78 and 79 for 234.
Florida player Mayule Tomimbang’s standard of play is dropping with each round but an opening score of 67 is standing her in good stead.
The Kissimmee player has followed that up with 74 and 76 to be on four-over-par 217. She leads by one stroke from 11-year-old Alexis Thompson from Coral Springs, Florida – the youngest player ever to compete in the championship - and Alina Lee.
Gavin Dear was in the top 10 after an opening 69 but he has since scored 77 and 75 for eight-over-par 221.
Edward Richardson from East Sussex Golf Club is the leading European player in the men’s championship after rounds of 71, 70 and 71 for a one-under-par aggregate of 212. That had him in joint ninth place, eight shots behind the succinctly named leader from Celebration, Florida – Mu Hu.
DIXIE AMATEUR CHAMPIONSHIPS
Palm-Aire Country Club, Pompano Beach, Florida.
LEADING THIRD-ROUND TOTALS
MEN (Par 213: 3 x 71)
Competitors from US unless stated
204 Mu Hu 68 66 70.
205 Greg Huxman 69 66 70, Bud Cauley 69 67 69.
207 Lion Kim 71 67 69.
208 Ji Moon 74 65 69.
209 Gator Todd 70 66 73, Jhared Hack 70 69 70.
210 David Johnson 67 71 72.
212 Edward Richardson (Eng) 71 70 71, Nicholas Mullhaupt 69 72 71, Judson Eustaquio 69 67 76, Ki Moon 68 72 72, Minghao Wang 68 71 73.
Other scores:
215 Xavier Feyaerts Belg) 69 73 73.
219 Florian Fritsch (Ger) 74 71 74.
220 Patrick Hanauer (Ger) 75 69 76.
221 Gavin Dear (Sco) 69 77 75, Roger Furrer (Switz) 75 72 74 (jt 46th)..
225 Stephen Gross (Ger) 73 73 79.
WOMEN (Par 213: 3 x 71)
217 Mayule Tomimbang 67 74 76.
218 Alexis Thompson 69 74 75, Alina Lee 72 72 74.
219 Megan McChrystal 74 72 73, Christina Hirano 73 78 68, Michelle Shin 74 68 77, Vicky Hurst 71 71 77.
Other scores:
233 Claire-Marie Carlton (Sco) 77 79 77 (jt 29th).
234 Rachael Cassidy (Ire) 77 78 79 (jt 32nd).

RACHEL AND SALLY MAKE GOOD START TO ORANGE BLOSSOM TOUR
Rachel Connor from Oldham and South Queensferry’s Sally Watson were up with the leaders at the end of the first round in the Harder Hall Women’s Invitational golf tournament at Harder Hall County Club, Sebring in Florida, the first event of the annual Orange Blossom Tour.
England girl international Rachel, daughter of Manchester Golf Club’s Scottish-born professional Brian Connor, shot a two-under-par 70 top be lying joint second while Scotland girl cap Sally Watson, only 15, had a 72 to be joint fourth with three rounds to go in this stroke-play tournament.
Sally’s older sister Rebecca Watson had an 83 while Sarah Carty from Dublin returned an 88.
The field will be cut to the leading 40 and ties after 36 holes.
University of Virgina student Leah Wigger leads the field with a three-under-par 69.
Carol S Thompson, the tournament director and United States Curtis Cup captain, had an 80.
HARDER HALL WOMEN’S INVITATIONAL
Harder Hall CC, Sebring, Florida.
Leading first round scores
Par 72
Players from US unless stated
69 Leah Wigger.
70 Rachel Connor (Eng), Candace Schepperle.
72 Sally Watson (Sco), Jacqui Concolino.
73 Diane Lang, Alexandra Schulte.
74 Cindel Gwyn.
75 Rachel Gavin, Isabelle Lendl, Courtney Mahon, Garrett Phillips.
Other scores:
80 Carol S Thompson.
83 Rebecca Watson (Sco).
88 Sarah Carty (Ire).

Thursday 4th January 2007

Monifieth Golf Club Junior Girls Prizegiving was held tonight within the golf club in front of family & friends.
Rebecca Wilson receiving junior girls club championship trophy from girls captain Jillian Pryde. Other main winners were Andrea Bowie, Heather Peebles and Ashley Smith.
From left to right (rear row first) Kayleigh Winton, Katie Sturrock, Alison Pryde, Andrea Bowie, Claire Penrose, Ashley Smith, Heather Peebles, Laura Hunter, Gail Wilson,
(front row) Kirsten Patterson, Rachael Kerr, Louise Smith, Rebecca Wilson, Jillian Pryde, Emily Jamieson, Heather Munro, Rosy Hunter.
Isn't it encouraging to see so many girls all from the same club?
Congratulations to Monifeith Golf Club, the organisers and the girls.
[Photo courtesy: Steve Wilson]

IRISH LADIES GOLF UNION FOCUS ON BEGINNERS WHO ARE NOT CLUB MEMBERS
Full marks to the Irish Ladies Golf Union for taking beginners who are not yet members of a golf club into their plans to encourage women's participation in golf.
The ILGU website carries the following message:
Following the successful “Introduction to Golf” Training Day in April 2006, the ILGU will hold additional Training Days for beginners, who are not yet members of a club, in various locations around the country throughout 2007.
These events, part of the Irish Sports Council’s Women in Sport initiative, will be held to promote, encourage and support women’s participation in golf. Attendees can participate in several coaching sessions (only €7/£5 per session) covering the long game, pitching, putting and a briefing on the game’s Rules & Etiquette.
Each session will be conducted by qualified PGA Professionals and assisted by volunteer ILGU personnel.
To register, contact the relevant co-ordinator in your area.

MICHELE THOMSON CUTTING SHORT GOLF SCHOLARSHIP IN UNITED STATES
After only four months and very much against the trend of young Scottish golf talent heading Stateside, Michele Thomson has decided not to continue with her four-year golf scholarship at Jacksonville State University. The 18-year-old Ellon girl is to return home from Alabama immediately.
“When I signed in April to play and study at JSU, one of things that encouraged me was the golf programme, the people and the infrastructure they had in place,” said Michele.
“Sadly however, by the time I arrived in Alabama at the end of August, things had changed, the swing coach had moved on and as a result the golf programme was, in my opinion, already beginning to suffer.
“Don’t get me wrong. The university people there are very friendly and supportive and the facilities and weather are great but, without regular quality coaching, even though I was qualifying well and had one or two good results, I felt I was not progressing at the rate I wanted.”
Michele, the current Scottish schoolgirls champion, winner of the North of Scotland women’s title for the past two years and a member of the title-winning Scotland girls team last summer, said she had had a talk with the Jacksonville State head coach but he was not able to convince her that things were going to improve in the short term.
“While home over Christmas, I was on the range almost every day, sometimes for about five hours, working with a number of key people. While I knew myself that my swing had deteriorated over the four months abroad I did not appreciate just how bad technically it had become and in the end the decision about what was best for me personally was easy,” said Michele.
“Having seen and tried first hand what is available in America has made me much more appreciative of what is actually available on my own door step in Scotland.
“I know some people may say I did not give it long enough but you have to be there to understand. While there are good and not-so-good universities in the States, things continuously change and you have to keep reviewing where you want your golf to be against where you are at. “I was not prepared to go another four or five months without the necessary support I believe I need to improve. There is no doubt I will miss the regular American college tournaments and the many new friends I have made but now that I have made my decision I look forward to working hard with quality people in Scotland and getting my game into shape for the 2007 season.
“I am going to continually review my progress over the coming months and work hard at home with my game before making any decision about what I want to do on a longer term basis.”

THREE STIRLING STUDENTS SURVIVE HALFWAY CUT IN FLORIDA
Stirling University students Gavin Dear from Scone, Dubliner Rachael Cassidy and Claire-Marie Carlton from Fereneze survived the halfway cut in the 76th Dixie men’s and women’s amateur golf championships over the Oaks and Cypress courses at Palm-Aire Country Club, Pompano Beach near Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
Murrayshall Golf Club member Dear made it with only one shot to spare in perfect scoring conditions – warm and windless.
After an opening round of four-under-par 69 which put him in the top 10 overnight, Gavin slid down the leaderboard with a 77 for 146.
The leading 60 players (from a starting field of over 200) on 147 or better qualified for the final two rounds of the 72-hole stroke-play championship.
Mu Hu, from the quaintly named Florida town/city of Celebration, leads by one shot with 68 and 66 for eight-under-par 134.
Leading European is England international Edward Richardson from East Sussex Golf Club. He has had rounds of 71 and 70 to be sharing 14th place on one-under-par 141.
Ireland’s Rachael Cassidy, pictured left, a 19-year-old member of The Island Golf Club, has had scores of 77 and 78 for 155 – one ahead of 20-year-old Claire-Marie Carlton, pictured right, who has shot 77 and 79.
They were among the 43 players with 36-hole totals of 159 or better, who advanced to the last two rounds of the women’s championship.
Stirling students Emma Tipping (85-167) from Cheshire, Dawn Dewar (94-183) from Monifieth and Catherine Baines (95-190) missed out as did Perth & Kinross squad member Jacqueline Sneddon (89-177), a member of Alyth Golf Club.
Florida-born Stirling student Courtnay Montgomery withdrew after a first-round 93.
Mayule Tomimbang from Kissimmee, Florida leads the women’s championship on one-under-par 141 after a second-round 74. She is only a shot ahead of two other home-state players, Michelle Shin and Vicky Hurst.
Vicky, runner-up in last week’s Junior Orange Bowl girls’ championship, had her first ever hole in one with a five-iron at at the 151yd 17th hole on her way to a par-matching 71 for 142
Alexis Thompson, at 11 years of age the youngest ever player to enter the Dixie women’s tournament, slipped down to a share of third place on 143 after a second-round 75.
DIXIE AMATEUR CHAMPIONSHIPS
Palm-Aire CC, Pompano Beach, Florida.
LEADING SECOND-ROUND TOTALS
Men (Par 142: 2 x 71)
Players from US unless stated
134 Mu Hu 68 66.
135 Greg Huxman 69 66.
136 Bud Cauley 69 67, Judson Eustaquio 69 67, Gatopr Todd 70 66, Daniel Candon 71 65.
138 Lion Kim 71 67, David Johnson 67 71.
Other qualifiers included:
141 Edward Richardson (Eng) 71 70.
142 Xavier Feyaerts (Belg) 69 73…
144 Patrick Hanauer (Ger) 75 69.
145 Florian Fritsch (Ger) 74 71.
146 Gavin Dear (Sco) 69 77, Stephen Gross (Ger) 73 73.
147 Roger Furrer (Switz) 75 72.
Non-qualifiers included:
149 James Dunkley (Eng) 77 77.
165 Christian Fritsch (Ger) 85 80.
Women (Par 142: 2 x 71)
Players from US unless stated
141 Mayule Tomimbang 67 74.
142 Michelle Shin 74 68, Vicky Hurst 71 71.
143 Alexis Thompson 69 74, Cassandra Blaney 72 71.
144 Alina Lee 72 72.
146 Megan McChrystal 74 72, Andrea Watts 76 70.
149 Laura Gonzalez-Escallon (Belg) 78 71, Leigh Crosby) 72 77.
Other qualifiers included:
155 Rachael Cassidy (Ire) 77 78.
156 Claire-Marie Carlton (Sco) 77 79.
Non-qualifiers included:
167 Emma Tipping (Eng) 82 85.
177 Jacqueline Sneddon (Sco) 88 890.
183 Dawn Dewar (Sco) 89 94.
190 Catherine Baines (Eng) 95 95.
Withdrew: Courtnay Montgomery (US) 93 -.

Wednesday 3rd January 2007

R&A Press Release
RICHIE RAMSAY HEADS LIST OF R&A BURSARS
US Amateur Champion Richie Ramsay, pictured below right, is one of 64 students, an increase of 20% from 2005/06, in receipt of R&A Foundation bursary funding for the current academic year. Following his win at Hazeltine in August, the Stirling University student and 2005 Walker Cup player will play in the first three ‘majors’ of 2007 – the Masters, the US Open and The Open – while completing his university studies.
Individual bursaries range from £500 to £3,000 and players with handicaps of +1 or better for men or 3 for women are eligible to apply.
The R&A’s total annual spend on university golf currently exceeds £300,000 and includes grants to support student golf programmes run at Birmingham, Bournemouth, Dublin, Exeter, Glasgow, Heriot Watt, Loughborough, Northumbria, St Andrews, Stirling, Strathclyde and Ulster. Joining this list for the first time is the University of Pretoria in South Africa.
Name, Home Club, Place of Study,
Helena Arnadottir, Reykjavik, Iceland, University of Iceland,
Paul Betty, Hayston, University of Stirling,
Samantha Birks, Wolstanton, University of Manchester,
David Booth, Rotherham, University of Stirling,
Scott Borrowman, Dollar, University of Stirling,
Clare-Marie Carlton, Fereneze, University of Stirling,
Rachel Cassidy, The Island, University of Stirling,
Colin Colraine, Windyhill, University of Strathclyde,
Dave Corsby, Fleetwood, Myerscough College,
Mark Davies, Coventry Hearsall, University of Exeter,
Gavin Dear, Murrayshall, University of Stirling,
John Duff, Newmachar, University of Aberdeen,
Emma Fairnie, Dunbar, University of Edinburgh,
Samuel Foster, Coventry Hearsall, University of Exeter,
Antonio Garbaccio, Turin, Italy, Turin Polytechnic,
Kevin Garwood, Surrey National, Bournemouth University,
Cameron Gray, West Kilbride, University of St Andrews,
Iwan Griffiths, Aberdare, University of Wales, Swansea,
Claire Grignolo, Turin, Italy, Imperial College, London,
Kerri Harper, Inverness, University of Abertay,
Lesley Hendry, Routenburn, University of Paisley,
Thea Hoffmeister, Seddiner See, Germany, University of Newcastle,
Andrew Hogan, Newlands, University College Dublin,
Jonathan Holmes, Southerndown, University of Southampton,
Steven Hume, Murrayshall, University of Abertay,
Rachel Hunt, Royal Porthcawl, Swansea Institute of Higher Education,
Matthew Jones, Pontypridd, University of Wales Institute, Cardiff,
Louise Kenney, Pitreavie, University of Dundee,
Roberto Laino, Bedford & County, University of Durham,
Shane Lowry, Esker Hills, University College Dublin,
Alexander MacGregor, Killiow, University of Exeter,
Greg McBain, Newmachar, North Highland College,
Alex McCloy, Ballymena, University of Ulster,
Naoimh McMahon, Shannon, University of Limerick,
Alexander Main, Thornton, University of Edinburgh,
David Morrison, Duff House Royal, North Highland College,
Niall O’Connor, Elm Park, University College Dublin,
Gillian O’Leary, Cork, University College Cork,
Philippo Okan, Meerbusch, Germany, University of St Andrews,
Edward Parker, Crewe, University of Birmingham,
Euan Polson, Inverness, University of Stirling,
Richie Ramsay, Royal Aberdeen, University of Stirling,
Darren Renwick, Worthing, Chichester College,
Andrea Romano, Modena, Italy, University of Bologna,
Anna Roscio, Turin, Italy, University of Turin,
Samantha Round, Tadmarton Heath, University of Gloucestershire,
Bobby Rushford, Grangemouth, University of Stirling,
Andrew Shakespear, Five Lakes, University of Bath,
Elliot Shaw, Herefordshire, Cardiff University,
Andrew Smedley, Notts, University of Birmingham,
James Smedley, Hallowes, Sheffield Hallam University,
Brian Soutar, Leven Golfing Society, Heriot-Watt University,
Gordon Stevenson, Whitecraigs, University of St Andrews,
Emma Tipping, Sandiway, University of Stirling,
Catherine Tucker, Limerick, University of Limerick,
Vittoria Valvassori, La Margherita, Italy, University of Teramo,
Laura Walker, Nairn Dunbar, University of Dundee,
Simon Ward, County Louth, University of Ulster,
James White, Lundin, University of Stirling,
Craig Wilkinson, Blyth, Northumbria University,
Jonathan Williams, Vale of Glamorgan, University of Wales Institute, Cardiff,
Rebecca Wood, Glossop & District, Sheffield Hallam University,
Jonathon Watt, Brokenhurst Manor, University of Stirling,
Gordon Yates, Hilton Park, University of Stirling,

GAVIN DEAR SIXTH IN FLORIDA BUT TO STIRLING UNIVERSITY GIRLS ONLY 27th
Stirling University student Gavin Dear from Scone –named today (Wed) as an R&A Bursar - did best of the Scottish contingent in the first round of the 76th Dixie amateur golf championship at Palm-Aire Country Club, Pompano Beach, north of Fort Lauderdale in Florida on Tuesday.
Murrayshall Golf Club member Gavin, who played on the American college golf circuit for Lynn University, Boca Raton, benefited from that experience of Florida conditions to return a score of two-under-par 69 over the Oaks course.
He starts the second round of the men’s four-round stroke-play championship in joint sixth place, two shots behind leader David Johnson from Palm Beach Florida.
Only the leading 60 in the men’s field of 205 will go on to the third round.
Two Florida-based players are setting the pace in the women’s championship field of 59. Mayule Tomimbang from Kissimmee shot a four-under-par 67 to lead by two shots from 11-year-old Alexis Thompson from Coral Springs, the youngest player ever to play in the “Dixie.”
The top Stirling University players were Ireland’s Rachael Cassidy from Dublin and Scotland’s Clare-Marie Carlton from the Fereneze club. They are sharing 27th place on 77.
Stirling student Emma Tipping from Sandiway, Cheshire was tied 45th after an 82.
Perth & Kinross women’s squad member Jacqueline Sneddon (Alyth) from Tayport, who is not a Stirling student, had an 88.
Completing the Stirling university squad, Dawn Dewar from Monifieth had an 89, Florida-born Courtnay Montgomery a 93 and Catherine Baines a 95.
The women’s championship field will be cut to the leading 40 after 36 holes.
DIXIE AMATEUR CHAMPIONSHIPS
Palm-Aire CC, Pompano Breach, Florida.
FIRST ROUND
Leading men’s scores (Par 71)
(Players from US unless stated)
67 David Johnson.
68 Jeff Dennis, Mu Hu, Ki Moon, Minghao Wang.
69 Gavin Dear (Sco), Greg Hauxman, Nicholas Mullhaupt, Judson Eustaquio, Xavier Feyaerts (Belg), David Palm.
Other scores:
71 Edward Richardson (Eng).
72 James Dunkley (Eng).
74 Florian Fritsch (Ger).
75 Patrick Hanauer (Ger), Roger Furrer (Swi).
83 Gael Seegmuller (Belg).
85 Christian Fritsch (Ger).
86 Sandro Viglino (Switz).
Leading women’s scores (Par 71)
(Players from US unless stated)
67 Mayule Tomimbang.
69 Alexis Thompson.
71 Erica Gonzalez, Vicky Hurst.
72 Cassandra Blaney, Leigh Crosby, Alina Lee, Jenny Shin.
73 Madison Pressel, Jane Rah, Rebecca Samuelsson, Christina Hirano.
Other scores:
77 Rachael Cassidy (Ire), C-M Carlton (Sco).
82 Emma Tipping (Eng).
88 Jacqueline Sneddon (Sco).
89 Dawn Dewar (Sco).
93 Courtnay Montgomery (US).
95 Catherine Baines (Eng) (57th).

Tuesday 2nd January 2007

EGU Press Release
WOLSTENHOLME AWARDED MBE IN NEW YEAR HONOURS LIST
It was definitely a happy holiday for Gary Wolstenholme when he was named in the New Year Honours List. The England international was awarded the MBE for services to sport.
“It’s a great honour and I’m very proud,” he said. “I received a letter from the Prime Minister’s Office some three weeks ago and the biggest problem was not being able to tell anyone. It was burning a hole in my pocket so to speak.
“This means everything to me. It salutes the sacrifices I’ve made to the game over the past 20 years but this is not just for me. It is also for those people who have helped me achieve what I have. Those at my club Kilworth Springs, those who have coached me over the years, the people who helped me when I was in Bristol, and especially my mother without whom I wouldn’t have achieved anything.”
Wolstenholme has been at the pinnacle of the men’s amateur game for three decades. He made his full England debut in the 1988 Home Internationals and has played annually ever since. He has also played regularly against France and Spain and in the European Men‘s Team Championships, making overall 199 appearances for his country.
He has been a member of the past six GB&I Walker Cups, four times on the winning side, as well as three St Andrews Trophies and three Eisenhower Trophies for England and GB&I, once as a winner.
“Being able to represent your country, be it England or GB&I, means more to me than all the individual stuff,” he adds. “The team events such as the Walker Cup and Eisenhower Trophy are thrilling and I would say winning the Eisenhower in Chile in 1998 would be my ultimate success.”
Despite turning 46 last August, Wolstenholme has lost none of his zest for golf and is about to launch another hectic year by jetting off to Australia in two weeks to represent England in a series of events.
“I’ve been playing golf for over 40 years, having started when I was four,” he says. “Although I’m 46 years old I feel I’m 46 years young. I am still very ambitious and want to achieve even more in the game. A seventh Walker Cup would be high on the list.”
Wolstenholme will receive his MBE at an investiture at Buckingham Palace, he hopes from the Queen, some time over the coming months. “I’ve been to the Palace with the Walker Cup team but I’ve yet to meet the Queen. So that would be a thrill,” he adds.

Monday 1st January 2007

Happy New Year to all kirkwoodgolf readers

P&K BAG-PACKERS MAKE £870.95 FOR COUNTY FUNDS
Perth & Kinross Ladies Golf Association funds have received an £870.95 boost, thanks to the bag-packing efforts at Marks & Spencers on Saturday.
The volunteer "packers" were Ailie & Erica Burnett, Annabel Niven, Lucy Gilmour, Pat Colquhoun, Wilma Stewart, Carol Muir, Sue Mellor, Dawn Butchart, Greig Butchart, Gwen Lambie, Jane Yellowlees, Sal Shepherd and county captain Janet Griffiths.
"A big thank you to Jillian Milne who arranged the event for us, M & S for allowing us to be there and the wonderful folk of Perth for their generosity," says Janet on the P&K website.
"The money will go towards coaching for all juniors and senior squad members."

STIRLING STUDENTS TEE IT UP IN DIXIE AMATEUR TOMORROW
The 76th annual Dixie amateur championships start tomorrow over the Oaks and Cypress courses at Palm-Aire Country Club, Pompano Beach in Florida.
Competing in the women’s section will be six Stirling University students – Dawn Dewar, Claire-Marie Carlton, Catherine Baines, Rachael Cassidy Emma Tipping and Courtney Montgomery.
Courtney is an American and comes from Florida.
Jacqueline Sneddon, entered from Tayport, is also in the field.
The Dixie women’s amateur championship is over four rounds of stroke-play with a cut to the leading 40 and ties after two rounds.
Later in the week, the Orange Blossom Tour for female amateurs tees off at Harder Hall Country Club, Sebring in Florida.
The Harder Hall Women’s Invitational tournament tees off on January 4 and is over four rounds.
In the field are teenagers Sally Watson from South Queensferry and Rachel Connor from Oldham, daughter of the Scots-born Manchester Golf Club professional Brian Connor. Both Sally and Rachel competed in last week’s Junior Orange Bowl at Coral Gables, Florida.
Welsh seniors champion Vicki Thomas and United States Curtis Cup captain Carol Semple Thompson, the organising chairman of the Harder Hall tournament, will also be in action.
The Stirling University players will join the four-event Orange Blossom Tour later.