Feb 6, 2017: A large contingent of the world’s top international players are set to grace the fairways in the Oates Vic Open at 13th Beach Golf Links when the 2017 Ladies European Tour season tees off in Australia from Thursday.
A total of 144 of the world’s most talented female players will tee it up in Barwon Heads, including Beth Allen of the USA, India’s Aditi Ashok and English pair Florentyna Parker and Melissa Reid, who all enjoyed sensational seasons in 2016.
Reigning LET Order of Merit winner Beth Allen will start her 2017 campaign at Oates Vic Open, after recording back-to-back wins at the Lacoste Ladies Open de France and Fatima Bint Mubarak Ladies Open in Abu Dhabi late last season on her way to the top of the Order of Merit.
Allen notched a further six top 10s in 2016 and made more birdies than any other player on the LET throughout the season, with 224.
Ashok turned professional 12 months ago and the 18-year-old’s first season on the Ladies European Tour was highlighted by back-to-back wins at the Hero Women’s Indian Open and Qatar Ladies Open. An additional five top 10 finishes throughout 2016 earned Ashok Rookie of the Year honours and has launched her inside the top 100 in the Rolex Women’s World Golf Rankings.
Another player who had an incredible 2016 season, finishing third on the Order of Merit, Parker had eight top 10 finishes last year and the two-time LET winner will be looking to build on that momentum.
Parliamentary Secretary for Tourism and Major Events Danielle Green said the Andrews Government was pleased to welcome a strong women’s field to Victoria for this year’s event.
“We’re proud supporters of the Oates Vic Open and we can’t wait to see some of the world’s best female golfers tee up in Barwon Heads,” said Green.
“These athletes will inspire more young Victorian girls to pick up a club and get active.”
City of Greater Geelong General Manager Investment & Attraction Brett Luxford said the 2017 Oates Vic Open has the strongest field of female golfers to date.
“The tournament continues to attract the world’s greatest players and it is testament to Golf Victoria and the quality of 13th Beach Golf Links for producing a world-renowned event,” Mr Luxford said.
Ladies European Tour Release
