Annabel on course to achieve golf dream

At the weekend the Lurgan Golf Club member retained her Irish Girls Close title in Galway.A fantatic achievement to win back to back titles and she did it in the most demanding of conditions.

“It was pretty tough,” said Annabel from Switzerland where she is competing in the European Young Masters.

“I’m just delighted to have come through it and lift the trophy again.”

Having won the title last year you would expect the defending champion to feel under pressure, but the St. Mary’s High School pupil was unfazed.

“I didn’t feel any pressure at all,” added Annabel. “I just play one hole and one shot at a time. I relish the competition and all the players know each other and get on well.”

Annabel first picked up a club aged 7 and has made remarkable progress in the sport.

“I really enjoy golf and I really feel I can continue to get better. I have been with my coach and mentor Peter Martin of Colin Glen Driving Centre for the past four years and he has been a great help.”

To succeed in any sport dedication is key and Annabel spends a huge chunk of her time on the course.

“I play every day,” she added. The dream is hopefully to turn professional one day. I still have two years at school and then we will see where we are after that.”

After her win in Galway, Annabel jetted off to Switzerland on Sunday where she is playing in the European Young Masters near Lake Geneva.

She is a member of Lurgan, Royal County Down Ladies and Silverwood where she practices.