CARDIGAN, Wales – May 12, 2025
England’s Sally Shayler successfully defended her title at the Welsh Women’s Open Senior Championship, clinching the win with a course-record performance at Cardigan Golf Club.
The 54-year-old former firefighter from Bedfordshire topped the leaderboard with a final round of 72, setting a new course record and finishing three shots clear of the field. The victory marks Shayler’s second consecutive national title after winning last year at Llandrindod Wells.
Strong Welsh Showing
Welsh golfers made a strong showing on home soil, securing the next four spots on the leaderboard. Conwy’s Linda Carruthers took second place for the second year in a row, while also winning the Welsh Women’s Senior Open Closed Championship. Ann Lewis of Royal St David’s finished third, mirroring last year’s results. Pennard’s Deborah Howard improved on last year’s performance to finish fourth, and Sue Caley from Apsley Guise and Woburn Sands rounded out the top five.
Jane Hallows from Maesdu also earned a share of sixth place.
Course Conditions and Championship Praise
Shayler, who led after the opening round, credited the stunning scenery and testing conditions at Cardigan as both a challenge and an inspiration.
“Cardigan was stunning to play, I’ve never seen views like it,” Shayler said. “It was a bit windy and I had to keep it straight and narrow in places, but I’ve never been anywhere like it. Defending the title was tough with so many strong players, especially from Wales.”
Since her win last year, Shayler has remained part of England’s Senior Women’s team and was undefeated at the European Senior Golf Team Championships.
Dan Fullager, Competitions Manager at Wales Golf, praised both the players and the picturesque West Wales venue.
“Cardigan provided a superb backdrop for a top-quality competition,” he said. “Sally’s course record was the perfect finish, and the strong Welsh performances added to the excitement. A big thank-you to all the staff and volunteers who made the event a success.”
