Teen ace Walton is fourth in Spain test (From Ledbury Reporter)

Teen ace Walton is fourth in Spain test

12:41pm Monday 18th March 2013 in Sport

BUDDING professional Lucy Walton wants to build on making a fine impression at her first overseas tournament.

The Malvern St James School pupil and The Worcestershire member, 13, finished fourth in the three-day Murcia Ladies’ Open in Spain which was open to all female amateurs.

Walton, the current club champion, finished fourth with gross scores of 82, 81 and 81 over 18 holes each day at Hacienda del Alamo.

The Hanley Swan youngster said: “I am really thrilled to have done so well in the open.

“I entered it to gain experience at an overseas event which will be very valuable as I look to reach my longterm ambition of becoming a professional golfer.

“I had never played on such a dry course before, the greens were faster than anything I had experienced, so it took a couple of days to learn how to deal with them but it was a fabulous experience.”

Walton began playing golf aged seven and she has achieved quick success.

Her accolades include winning the Worcestershire championship last year aged just 12 to be the youngest nationally to claim a ladies’ county title. Walton also finished third in the English National Under 13s Championships.

Malvern St James headteacher Patricia Woodhouse said: “On behalf of the school community, we’d like to congratulate Lucy on her fantastic success in Murcia.

“To show such great talent and ability at such a young age is something to be celebrated and we are sure that, with continued training and support, Lucy will continue to shine.”

Walton practices or competes every Tuesday morning and Friday afternoon, boosted by a further gym session on a Thursday.

She then hits the competition circuit between March and October.

Walton also plays in school teams, including hockey, lacrosse and netball as well as county and club hockey.

This year, she is entering several major championships, including the Scottish under 16s, English under 15s, English amateur ladies, the Faldo Series and North of England under 16s Championships as well as chasing senior county selection.

Woodhouse added: “I am extremely proud of Lucy’s achievements which are testament to her determination and dedication.”