Local golfers share their experiences on the Sunshine Ladies Tour
Rounds two, three and four of the Sunshine Ladies Tour has these Benonians pushing their limits to the finish.
The Jabra Classic (April 14-16), the SuperSport Ladies Challenge (April 21-23) and the Joburg Ladies Open (28-30) have concluded, and Benonians Lejan Lewthwaite and Nicole Garcia are still fighting strong.
ALSO READ:
Benoni lady golfers reflect on Cape Town Open
Jabra Ladies Classic
“I loved playing in this classic, especially because it is hosted at one of my favourite golf courses in SA, Glendower Golf Club. My game was not quite where I wanted it, but I know I am close and continue to find my rhythm,” said Lewthwaite.
“I had a tricky start but by the second round I started to gain some confidence and played nicely for the final two days,” said Garcia.
The SuperSport Ladies Challenge
“I have so many good memories playing at the Gary Player course in Sun City, so I really enjoyed this challenge. Even though my game still hadn’t taken shape, I had a lot of positives to draw upon, including a couple of level par nines,” said Lewthwaite.
“Unfortunately, my injuries started to flare up during this event and I didn’t have great results. I’m still learning how my body will react to so much golf in a row and every tournament I play has its own challenges,” explained Garcia.
The fourth round was the Joburg Ladies Open, which took place at Soweto Country Club. Both golfers found the course to be incredibly tough, but they agree they have taken away many lessons.
Joburg Ladies Open
“My game felt good going into the Open. Playing at Soweto Country Club requires a lot of patience. Things don’t always go your way on that golf course. Three bad holes cost me a good finish this week,” explained Lewthwaite.
“I had a disappointing last round, but overall it was a tough course and lots of positives to take from it. I’m still working through some playing rust from being out for so long so every week is a new challenge and more learning curves when it comes to playing tournaments again after so long,” said Garcia.
Lying in 10th of the Investec Order of Merit, Lewthwaite feels motivated.
“I feel very motivated to get back to the form I was in pre-lockdown and finish the last two events on the Sunshine Ladies Tour with some top finishes. There’s a lot still to play for, and that excites me,” she said.
“I’m a little disappointed with all of my last three finishes since my third place at the Cape Town Ladies Open. I know my potential, and I’m not quite there yet. It happens in golf, that’s sport.
“Patience is key, and I’m comfortable knowing that I am working on the right things that will benefit me down the line.”
ALSO READ:
Local women golfers appreciate sponsor
Garcia has her head held high and is looking forward to fighting for first place in the next two rounds.
“I think I’m fourth on the rankings and it’s a little disappointing as I was leading for a while, but I can only try my best in the next few events.”
Both golfers thanked their coaches, Investec and their families.
