Olivia Mehaffey secured fourth place at the Platinum Ladies Open with back-to-back 65s. Graeme McDowell faces a challenge for The Open spot despite a strong performance. Annabel Wilson shines in Australia while the Delhi Challenge sees Irish players miss the cut. The Tunisia Open is affected by weather conditions, prompting changes in the tournament schedule.
Olivia Mehaffey achieved her finest professional performance in 640 days, finishing fourth at the Platinum Ladies Open on the Sunshine Ladies Tour. Following back-to-back rounds of six-under-par 65, she concluded the event at Blair Atholl Golf and Equestrian Estate, just four strokes behind her compatriot, Kiera Floyd, who claimed victory with an impressive 11-under 60 score.
Mehaffey expressed contentment over her performance, stating, “Nice to shoot two low scores back to back,” as she prepares for the upcoming ABSA Ladies Invitational and aims to pre-qualify for the Joburg Ladies Open on the Ladies European Tour. Floyd, who secured her first professional win, highlighted the influence of international players, noting, “I learnt so much from her – like how calm she is on the course.”
In the race for The Open, Graeme McDowell is facing considerable challenges despite recording a five-under-par 65 in round two at the International Series Macau. He trails the lead, held by Patrick Reed, by ten shots. Other competitors include Carlos Ortiz, Lucas Herbert, and Sergio Garcia, all maintaining competitive positions with strong scores. McDowell’s performance included a recovery from an early struggle, culminating in a total of eight birdies for his round.
Annabel Wilson from Northern Ireland made a significant move in the LET’s Ford Women’s Open, equaling McDowell’s 65. With seven birdies in her round, she advanced to 31st place while ten shots behind leaders Mimi Rhodes and Sara Kouskova, who set course records of 62 and 63 respectively. Meanwhile, Elm Park’s Anna Foster held 19th place, displaying commendable performances amidst a competitive field.
In the Delhi Challenge, Alex Maguire and Liam Nolan missed the cut by a shot at the Classic Golf & Country Club, closing with rounds of 71 and 74 respectively. Austria’s Lukas Nemecz is among the tournament leaders with a score of 64. The next HotelPlanner Tour event is scheduled for next month at the UAE Challenge.
Lastly, the Alps Tour’s Tunisia Open was shortened to 36 holes due to poor weather conditions, affecting numerous players. Robert Moran led the Irish contingent, sitting tied for 13th after posting a one-under 71. The final round will occur on Saturday, with the circuit set to continue in Tunisia for the next event before a break.
In summary, Olivia Mehaffey’s commendable fourth place at the Platinum Ladies Open marks a notable return to form, complemented by Kiera Floyd’s dominant performance. Meanwhile, Graeme McDowell and Annabel Wilson continue their pursuits in competitive tournaments, highlighting the ongoing endeavors of Irish golfers on various tours. Additionally, the Alps Tour is adjusting to weather challenges while maintaining an exciting schedule ahead.
Original Source: www.irishgolfdesk.com
