Irish professional Hazel Kavanagh from Dublin, who coaches at Carr Golf Centre, has become the first lady ever to play in the Titleist & Footjoy PGA Professional Championship.
Irish professional Hazel Kavanagh has become the first lady ever to play in the Titleist & Footjoy PGA Professional Championship.
The 44-year-old progressed through regional qualifying to book her place at the prestigious event. She also plays and coaches at Carr Golf Centre, which is just a stone’s throw away from the scenic Luttrellstown Castle.
“I was over the moon that I qualified for the PGA Professional Championship,” said Kavanagh. “I was the first lady to make the cut in our own Irish PGA Championship in 2013 and I won the Irish Club Professional Championship the following year, so when I qualified for the Finals in Luttrellstown it was a massive honour.''
“Hopefully my achievements will inspire other girls to join me next year and beyond.”
Kavanagh was not put off by being the only female player alongside 143 male participants.
The Dubliner performed admirably on the opening two days to make the cut, but the windy conditions and the lengthy Luttrellstown course took their toll as she finished 50th overall.
“I played so well the first two days and the two guys I played with were super, but the course was too long for me. I think I was mentally and physically drained after I made the cut. I have played on a lot of long courses on the European Tour but that was by far the longest and toughest I have ever played.''
Kavanagh got into golf at the age of 12 and she grew up learning from the likes of multiple major winner Padraig Harrington and 2014 Ryder Cup captain Paul McGinley.
Natalie Gulbis Reportedly Bidding For US Congress. Read More
