GOLF
A YOUNG golfer is proving to be a chip off the old block after winning a prestigious competition which qualifies her for world championships.
Year 7 student at Barnard Castle School Olivia Harland, who is being inspired in the sport by her granddad, won her age category at the celebrated Faldo Futures Grand Final at The Belfry.
The 11-year-old will now compete in the IMG Junior Golf Tour World Finals in America next year.
Hosted by legendary golfer Sir Nick Faldo, the Faldo Futures Final attracted hundreds of players, aged from seven to 12, who competed over nine holes.
Olivia, of Newsham, reached the final after a number of qualifying and regional events.
At the famous Midlands golf course, The Belfry, she shot a round of 40 winning the nine to ten age group category by three shots, earning her a place in the junior world championships, which will be held at Torrey Pines South, in California, next year.
“It was amazing playing at The Belfry though I was terrified when I first teed off,” said Olivia, who belongs to Blackwell Golf Club, Darlington.
“My chipping wasn’t great on the day but my long game was good and I was thrilled to win.
“My granddad missed his holidays in Scotland to be there and I think he was so proud of me.”
Granddad Robert Manners encouraged her to play from the age of seven allowing her to use some spare clubs in the garden. She now practises regularly every week playing on Sundays and Tuesdays and training in the gym on a Monday.
“I’m quite nervous about playing in America but am putting in a lot of practise,” she said.
“I’m not as good as my granddad but I will be one day and would love to have a career in golf. If not I’d quite like to be a psychiatrist because I’m interested in the mind, which helps me with my golf as I can stay calm.”
Barnard Castle School headmaster David Cresswell said: “It is so important that young people follow their passions in life and Olivia’s achievements are incredible and an inspiration to everyone at the school.
“Playing at The Belfry at such a young age is impressive enough, but to earn the chance to compete in America is astonishing.”
