Lottie Woad etches her name in Augusta National history.
Could this be a precursor to the events of Masters week? Lottie Woad, hailing from Farnham and only 20 years old, has made history by becoming the first European champion at Augusta National Women’s Amateur. It was an unforgettable moment that childhood dreams (as well as plenty of adult ones) are made of when she sank her birdie putt on the final green propelling herself ahead by one stroke against her American competitor Bailey Shoemaker and claiming victory.
In the final stretch of her round, Woad managed to sink shots on three out of four holes, with the last two being particularly impressive. Playing at a Georgia venue that is set to host the 88th Masters tournament starting Thursday, this ex-Girls’ Amateur champion scored an impressive 69. One can only imagine how envious other competitors would be if they knew about Woad’s fantastic finish!
“To be in the mix on the back nine at Augusta is something that everyone dreams about,” Woad said. “So I was trying to really embrace it. It’s just really cool to be standing in the same place as the Masters champions have stood and to be following in their footsteps a little bit.”
This tournament has now been played five times, with three past champions being from the US and Tsubasa Kajitani of Japan prevailing in 2021. Woad is currently studying at Florida State University and may be further enticed to pursue a professional career after this victory. However, he remains cautious not to make any hasty decisions as FSU’s upcoming national championship still demands his focus: “I want us to have a fighting chance there.”
Shoemaker, who achieved a bogey-free 66 to reach seven under and establish the clubhouse target, revealed why she was completely relaxed. She stated that this competition’s ultimate round solely occurs at Augusta National. “My stress levels were higher when I had to secure my spot in Champions Retreat [where the tourney commences],” she clarified.
In the second round, everyone expressed similar sentiments. It was uncertain whether one would be leading or struggling to qualify for further rounds. Despite receiving a bogey and climbing up five ranks, it was an incredibly chaotic day. However, being certain of making the cut and having the opportunity to stroll around Augusta National in the final game made things better – A perfect scenario that calls for enjoyment while playing golf. Although disappointed with results eventually achieved, I played as skillfully as possible under those circumstances.”
Despite withdrawing before the second round of LIV’s event in Miami due to food poisoning, Cameron Smith is anticipated to make a full recovery and be ready for the Masters.
