News: David Leadbetter Golf Academy

The Herald

Three Scottish amateurs, Kylie Walker, Sally Watson and Pamela Pretswell, are to test their games against the professionals at the AIB Ladies' Irish Open starting today at Portmarnock, writes Elspeth Burnside.

As member of the Great Britain and Ireland team to take on the Continent of Europe for the Vagliano Trophy in Germany next month, the triohave been invited to the leading Ladies' European Tour event.

For 22-year-old Walker, winner of the Scottish Ladies' Golf Association Order of Merit last year, it is a chance to prove she belongs in the arena. The Buchanan Castle player justmissed out on a LET card this year, and hopes to be a full-time rookie next season.

Watson has made a stunning return to form following knee surgery. The 17-year-old had the operation following last year's Curtis Cup and, since her comeback in January, the Elie youngster has won a couple of tournaments in America.

Watson has just graduated from the David Leadbetter IMG Academy in Florida and, in the autumn, she will be heading to Stanford University in California. "But it is nice to be back home for a few weeks and play some golf in Britain," said Watson. "I'm really looking forward to the Irish Open; it's nice to get the chance to you're your game at higher levels."

In all, there are 11 Scots competing at Portmarnock, including the four rookies - Krystle Caithness, Vikki Laing, Pamela Feggans and Michele Thomson - who have all made impressive starts to the LET campaign.