Golf: Cecilia Cho makes her way into Pegasus New Zealand Women’s Open
Cecilia Cho, the leading amateur golfer of New Zealand, has earned the invitation to play in the Pegasus New Zealand Women’s Open.
Apart from her, Caroline Bon and Lydia Ko of New Zealand have also made their way into the big event.
The tournament will take place at the Pegasus Golf Club, which is located near Christchurch from 17-20 February, 2011. The event, which is co-sanctioned by the Australian Ladies Professional Golf and the Ladies European Tour, will feature ten amateurs from
New Zealand.
The news was confirmed in a press conference by the New Zealand Golf chief executive Dean Murphy. He said, “The Pegasus NZ Women’s Open was established as a catalyst to raise the profile of the game for women and provide inspirational opportunities for young
New Zealand golfing talent. We are pleased we have been able to provide open qualifying places for our leading amateur players.”
He emphasised on the qualification standards laid by the tour and demonstrated confidence in the young blood. He said, “We have set clear criteria for our players to earn a place in the field for the open. I am sure that has been an incentive for them throughout
the year. This provides a clear pathway for our young players if they wish to develop into world-class professionals. This experience will no doubt be a massive benefit for them.”
According to the details, the field will feature 50 professionals, 10 amateurs, and 5 qualifiers.
The 16-year-old Cho is ready for the challenge. The teenager from Auckland won the Aaron Baddeley International title, which was held in China in December 2010. She has been a member at Pakuranga Golf Club and has won several events in the county.
Apart from her, 13-year-old Lydia Ko, who was the player of the tournament at the National Toro Interprovincial easily made her way into the event. Moreover, in 2010 she finished seventh in the NZ Open and impressed the golf fraternity with her putting expertise.
Another amateur champion Bon will make her professional debut on home ground after winning a conditional entry into the LET qualifying school recently.
The participation of the amateurs in a professional event will not only boost the confidence of the players, but will also help them in learning the game from leaders.
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