The Ladies European Tour (LET) players demonstrate resilience and determination when returning to Coffs Harbour for the much-anticipated Australian Women’s Classic. Despite challenging weather conditions, the excitement surrounding this prestigious event remains undiminished.
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A Challenging Start to the Aussie Swing
The Australian leg of the LET tour has faced significant challenges following the devastation caused by Cyclone Alfred along the Queensland coast. The extreme weather conditions led to the unfortunate cancellation of the Australian WPGA Championship last week. However, the Australian golf community has shown incredible support, rallying together to ensure the continuation of the tournament.
As the LET and WPGA Tour of Australasia shifts their focus to the second week of play in New South Wales, preparations for the seventh edition of the co-sanctioned Australian Women’s Classic are in full swing.
Revised Tournament Format Due to Weather Conditions
Due to persistent heavy rainfall in the region, tournament organizers have adjusted the format. The event will now be played as a 54-hole competition, commencing on Friday. Coffs Harbour Golf Club, a stunning yet challenging venue, is set to host the tournament. Course staff have been working tirelessly to mitigate the impact of the recent storms and ensure that the greens are in top condition for competitive play.
This venue, last featured on the LET circuit in 2018, is renowned for its scenic tree-lined fairways and strategically placed water hazards on the par-70 course. Despite the challenges posed by the weather, players and fans alike can expect an exciting display of elite golf.
Elite Players Set to Compete
The tournament boasts a competitive field of 132 players, comprising 80 LET professionals, 30 WPGA Tour players, 20 Golf NSW invites, and two qualifiers. This stellar lineup ensures that fans will witness high-quality golf from an array of international and homegrown talent.
Among the notable contenders is LPGA champion Grace Kim, currently ranked 83rd in the Rolex Women’s World Golf Rankings. As the highest-ranked field, she is a firm favorite to claim the prestigious title.
Joining Kim are accomplished LET winners, including Cara Gainer, Manon De Roey, Trichat Cheenglab, Pauline Roussin-Bouchard, Diksha Dagar, and Alice Hewson. Australian rising star Kirsten Rudgeley will also compete, seeking her first LET victory on home soil.
Past Champions and Tournament Legacy
The Australian Women’s Classic has a rich history of crowning elite champions. Previous winners include Meghan MacLaren (2022), Steph Kyriacou (2020), Marianne Skarpnord (2019), and Celine Boutier (2018). This year’s field will be vying to add their name to this distinguished list of champions.
Tournament Schedule and Global Broadcast
The competition starts on Friday, March 14, at 7:30 AM local time. After three days of intense competition, the champion will be crowned on Sunday, March 16. Golf enthusiasts worldwide will have the opportunity to watch the action unfold, as the weekend rounds will be broadcast live globally, with streaming available on the LET website. Official TV schedules will be released in the coming days.
A Celebration of Women’s Golf
Despite the setbacks posed by Cyclone Alfred, the Australian Women’s Classic stands as a testament to the resilience of the players, organizers, and the golfing community. With a prestigious lineup, a breathtaking venue, and worldwide coverage, the event promises to be an exhilarating showcase of top-tier women’s golf.
As the countdown to tee-off begins, anticipation is building for what is sure to be a thrilling chapter in the LET’s Australian swing.
