Paula is Irish Champion

Paula, 17, who was last year’s Ulster Girls and Ladies Champion, also won the silver medal as leading qualifier with rounds of 77 and 74.

After an easy win over Mary Doyle (The Heath) Paula had a close encounter with Olivia Mehaffy (Royal County Down), winning on the final green.

In her semi-final match against Jean O’Driscoll (Muskerry), Paula went one ahead after 15. Her putter came to the rescue as she holed long putts to win on the 18th.

She met Jessica Ross (Clandeboye) in the final and reached the turn all square.

Wins at 11, 14 and 15 put her three ahead and a half at the par three 16th was sufficient to keep the trophy in the Grant household.

Recently, Paula had the best individual tally of the Irish girls when she represented her country at the European Championships in Sardinia where the team finished 14th.

Lisburn Golf Club Captain Noel Robinson and Lady Captain Anne Shane offered their congratulations to Paula.

Lady Captain Anne Shane commented: “The Ladies Branch are absolutely delighted for Paula. Last year she did great things and she’s just moving on from her good performances again this year.

“We just wish her well and hope her good season continues,” she said.

“Paula’s sister Laura won this contest last year. The two girls are great competitiors and great ambassadors for the club and we support them every step of the way.”

A delighted Paula said: “I’m so happy. I really wanted to win this trophy, especially after Laura won it last year.”

The local girl, who is awaiting her AS Level results from Rathmore Grammar School, followed her father Paul and sister Laura, 18, into the golfing world by joining Lisburn Golf Club, and she plans to continue her golf when the time comes to go to University.

Paula added: “I couldn’t really believe it, it took a few days to sink in.”

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