Branxton’s Leanne Daniels has made history winnng the Hunter River’s inaugural 9 Hole Ladies District Championship.
Played at Singleton Golf Club, the stableford event was for beginners and it was Daniels, with a daily handicap of 41, who was the steadiest scoring 18 points.
Despite a wobbly one pointer on the third hole, Daniels came home strongly, with three pointers on the final two holes to take victory over The Vintage’s Tracey Henderson, who finished with 16 points.
“It was a great event, and I am so happy with the win,” Daniels said.
Kurri Kurri’s Ley Rowe finished third on a countback.
The 9 hole Championship event was created to provide a playing opportunity for beginner ladies and introduce them to competing in major District Events.
Before the 17 players teed off, GolfNSW provided a free clinic, a one hour session that the ladies appreciated.
“The clinics were fabulous, it was really welcoming and warm,” Merriwa’s Julia Hardy said.
“I picked up lots of tips and now I have to go and practice them.”
GolfNSW’s Senior Regional Manger, Mark Ingrey was encouraged by the event.
“There’s a lot of ladies out here just having some fun but they are learning a lot and the great thing this morning is that they asked a lot of questions,” he said.
“This event is what is going to help people keep playing golf. It’s the development and the entry point, rather than jumping from a clinic straight out into 18 hole golf, you have to make it social and today’s event has done that.
“I would like to see more districts conduct a 9 hole championship.”