13-year old Lily May Humphreys held her nerve through a tight showdown to win the English U14 girls’ open championship at Royal Cromer by one shot.


Lily May Humphreys

13-year old Lily May Humphreys held her nerve through a tight showdown to win the English U14 girls’ open championship at Royal Cromer by one shot beating her playing partner Mimi Rhodes.

Humphreys from Channels (image © Leaderboard Photography) had started the final round with a two-shot lead and at one stage, helped by two birdies and an eagle in the first four holes, she extended her advantage to five shots.

But her playing partner, Mimi Rhodes, gradually pulled her back and after she birdied the 16th, the two girls were level. Both parred the 17th before Humphreys claimed the title on the 18th with a six, to win by a shot.

She finished the championship on five-over par while Rhodes, who is based in Spain, was runner-up for the second year in a row. Third place was taken by Caitlin Whitehead (Kendal) on eight over.

“I just wanted to try and do my best and see how I could do. I feel so proud for my mum and dad because they’ve really helped me along, helped me to practice and to improve my game,” said Humphreys, who is also the Essex girls’ champion.

She played in this championship last year and came 10th. “I didn’t think I could improve so much that I’d be able to come from 10th to win,” she added.

Now, having tested herself, Humphreys plans to move up to U16 level next year.

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