Lauren Taylor named BBC Young Sports Personality
The rising star Lauren Taylor has grabbed the headlines, as she has received an honorific title, "BBC Young Sports Personality" of the year.
Presenter from BBC Sport, John Inverdale, formally announced the decision in a ceremony. There were a number of nominees for the said award but the young star from Northampton was picked out of three contenders.
Student of Moulton College, Taylor rose to prominence last month, as she clinched the Ladies British Open Amateur Championship at Royal Portrush, Northern Ireland.
After defeating her French rival with ease, her victory made her the youngest player to win the Amateur Championship.
Before Taylor took part in the event, she did not expect to exhibit such a phenomenal performance.
Her nearest competitor from France, Alexandra Bonetti, was stunned to see the British fire on the course, as she lost the match by 6 and 5 on the final day.
Taylor held her nerve and reeled off six birdies, capping the season with a flurry of excitement. The best part of the match was when she surged past Kelly Tidy, who was struggling to clinch the tournament once again.
“I told my dad that we were both going to relax this week because I usually try too hard in the big championships and let myself down. I play my best golf when I am stress free and dad was more laid back than he has ever been as my caddie,” Lauren said after winning.
Taylor conceded that she was a bit worried before participating in the Championship, as Kelly typically gives a tough time to her rivals.
However, she managed to overcome her nervousness and stayed composed on the course.
In addition to racking up the honorific BBC-awarded title, young Taylor took part in the Junior Solheim Cup, representing the European team. Her remarkable performance put her on the 20th position in the amateur world rankings.
Moreover, the 17-year-old Taylor grabbed attention of her fans when she assisted her country's team clinch a silver medal in the European Girls Team Championships.
Keeping her achievements in view, Baylor College has taken the young star on board, giving her a sports scholarship.
Inspired by her excellent performance and prestigious award, Ian Poulter also complimented Taylor on her improving game.
"She is not only a great golfer but an extremely well-rounded young woman," Poulter shared his thoughts. "Lauren is a deserving winner of the award and has my full support as she moves forward with her golfing career".
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