HORDLE golfer Liz Young, whose lightbulb moment led to the creation of the Rose Ladies Series in 2020, become the second event winner within the highly anticipated 2021 event.
Taking home her first professional win and the prize sum of £10,000, Young shot a level par completing 18 holes in 72 strokes - winning by two - at Woburn Golf Club, Milton Keynes.
Young, 38, has now earned her place within the final which will take place at Bearwood Lakes on September 25, carrying a £20,000 prize pot.
In 2020, Young had grown tired of cancelled Ladies European Tour tournaments so decided to take matters into her own hands. She linked up with fellow Brokenhurst Manor Golf Club member pro Jason MacNiven and set up a new event to help keep female golfers competitive, with the prize money coming from player entry fees.
Media coverage drew the attention of Hampshire-born golfer Justin Rose MBE, former number one and major champion along with his wife Kate Rose who stepped up to offer their support, creating a Series and providing £35,000 in prize money.
Young, who came third in the inaugural Rose Ladies Series order of merit, said: “I’m absolutely thrilled to have achieved my first professional win as part of this year’s Rose Ladies Series, and at Woburn, home to my favourite UK championship courses no less.
"I remember how excited I was back in 2002 when I won the Prince of Wales Amateur Challenge Trophy, maybe Woburn holds good luck for me!
“I still find it amazing that the Rose Ladies Series is now in its second year, and I’m over the moon that it’s grown from eight events to 11, with the continued backing from Justin and Kate, Excel Sports Management and of course its high-profile sponsors.
“The Rose Ladies Series provides a platform to support and attract female players who in turn become role models to inspire the next generation – as a mum to a four-year-old-girl this is something very close to my heart.”
The 2021 Rose Ladies Series comprises 11 events and is split into three sections – in April and May, August, and September – to coincide with gaps in the Ladies European Tour season.
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