Waterlooville Golf Club played host to a thrilling climax of the English Senior Women’s Open Stroke Play Championship, where local favourite Kerry Smith emerged victorious, securing the title by a three-shot margin.
Despite not having the final round she envisioned, finishing with a +4 for an overall +3, Kerry Smith’s performance was sufficient to fend off fierce competitors Caroline Berry from Bromborough and Switzerland’s Karin Luxon, who both tied for second place at +6 overall.
The familiar surroundings of her home club undoubtedly played a role in her triumph.
Smith reflected on her victory: “I’ve had the most enjoyable three days and I’m really happy.”
“I think I had a bit of an edge coming into the competition because I know the course very well, having been a member since I was a junior, but there’s always added pressure too as all the members think you’re going to do well.”
“I’ll be celebrating by going out with some family members at the weekend and having a good time!”
Smith’s impressive -2 score on the first day proved pivotal, as it was one of only two scores under par across the three rounds of the tournament.
This victory marks her second national title following her win at the English Senior Women’s Amateur Championship in 2023. When asked about future ambitions, Smith revealed, “Hopefully the British Stroke Play would be very nice!”
Caroline Berry, who finished as runner-up, continued her streak of strong performances, having also placed second at the English Senior Women’s Amateur in May. Jackie Foster, the victor in York’s event last month, finished this week’s competition in fourth place, seven shots behind Smith.
The tournament also recognized top performers in various age categories. Smith claimed the top spot in the 50-54 category, Luxon excelled in the 55-59 category, Jane Southcombe from Broadstone led the 60-64 group with an overall +18, and Berry was the best performer in the 65-plus category.
Keenan Triumphs in Handicap Tournament
Simultaneously, Charlotte Keenan showcased her prowess by winning the English Senior Women’s Stroke Play Handicap Tournament.
The East Berkshire golfer, playing off an 11 handicap, edged out Sue Poulter from Alresford by a single shot over 36 holes at Waterlooville Golf Club.
The competition, held on Tuesday and Wednesday, saw Keenan’s second round of nett-74 (+1) clinch the title, narrowly beating Poulter, who delivered the best score of the tournament with a nett level-par 73 in the final round.
Ann Hazlewood from Warren finished just one shot behind Poulter in third place, and Gabi Heuchel from East Berkshire secured fourth, with only a shot separating the top four competitors.
This year’s English Senior Women’s Open Stroke Play Championship at Waterlooville Golf Club was a testament to the high level of competition and sportsmanship in senior women’s golf.
The excitement and passion displayed by these seasoned golfers undoubtedly inspire the next generation of players.
