In a bold demonstration of golfing prowess, Mexico’s Clarisa Temelo has swiftly claimed the spotlight, charging ahead with a stellar performance at the Women’s Amateur Latin America championship.
Hosted for the first time at the venerable Lima Golf Club in Peru, which is celebrating its centennial year, this tournament is far from just another golf event.
At just 18, Temelo dazzled the field with her six-under-par 65, sweeping a five-shot lead ahead of her nearest competitors on an opening day that can only be described as a masterclass in precision under pressure.
With the top spot in the tournament and a ranking of 136th in the World Amateur Golf Ranking, her first round was a flurry of birdies, especially impressive given the breezy conditions that could have sent lesser spirits tumbling down the leaderboard.
The championship, presented by The R&A and the ANNIKA Foundation, saw two Colombian challengers, teenager Luana Valero and the experienced Silvia Garces, alongside Brazil’s Lauren Grinberg, each card a respectable one-under-par 70. Yet, they all found themselves looking up at Temelo’s formidable lead.
Temelo, currently a freshman at the University of Arkansas, isn’t just playing for another accolade to her name.
She’s on the verge of making history as the potential first Mexican victor of the WALA crown.
This isn’t just about national pride—this week’s champion will earn the chance to tee up with the leading lights of women’s professional golf across three major tournaments next year, including the prestigious AIG Women’s Open, The Chevron Championship, and The Amundi Evian Championship.
Ximena Benites, one of seven Peruvian players, had the honour of striking the first tee shot, heralding a day of historic significance in the San Isidro neighbourhood of Lima.
Yet, only a handful managed to break par, with defending champion Ela Anacona from Argentina navigating a tougher course to a four-over 75.
Adding to the charm of the day, children from the San Bartolo public course—a heartwarming initiative by The R&A and the Peruvian Golf Federation designed to democratise the sport—were seen soaking in the afternoon’s events.
Situated about 50 kilometres from Lima, this facility not only provides a space for practice but also a school for golf where children from low-income families can swing without financial burdens.
The Women’s Amateur Latin America championship not only serves as a battleground for the region’s top talent but also continues the mission started by the Women’s Amateur Asia-Pacific championship in 2018—to forge a path to the summit of professional golf for these determined women.
As the tournament unfolds, all eyes are on Temelo, whose blend of youthful vigour and seasoned strategy might just rewrite the record books and inspire a whole new generation of golfers from across Latin America.
