Top field for women’s golf

Press, 28 March 1981, Page 64

Top field for women’s golf

One of the best fields for many years will seek this year’s Canterbury women’s golf championship, whicK will begin with the two qualifying stroke rounds at Shirley on Tuesday. The leading Canterbury women will be under pressure to prevent the trophy from leaving the province. Nelson’s top golfer, Debbie Randell, the only scratch player in the field, and South Canterbury’s No. 1, Jenny Kellahan, a one-handi-capper, will keep the Canterbury players on their mettle.

Miss Randell, a national junior representative, is one of New Zealand’s most promising players. She finished second to Cushla Sullivan in “The Press” tournament at Shirley last month, and displayed fine skills. Miss Randell, aged 17, is a very strong and attacking player, but there is a looseness in her swing which can cause her embarrassment from the tees and with her long irons. However, she is a determined match player who had an outstanding Russell Grace

tournament at No. 1 for Tasman last year — five wins from six matches. Mrs Kellahan, from Geraldine, was seen in favourable light in “The Press” tournament, finishing third and equalling the course with an excellent 75. Her golf is often mixed, but when on form she is very capable. Adrienne Bond won her first Canterbury championship last year, and she was steady and consistent in every round. Her performance’s in “The Press” tournament and Canterbury stroke championship were a little disappointing, but she has the ability to rise to the occasion in match play. Canterbury’s leading lady for many years. Sue Bishop the 1979 champion, retained her stroke championship last week, and will. be , selected by many to complete the double. She is a gifted and graceful golfer. If there is an upset', Diane Ritchie is most likely to be responsible. She was the second qualifier last year behind Mrs Bishop