More magic from Maguire could see a breakthrough for Irish golf

IT doesn’t surprise me that Leona Maguire is starting to make a lot of noise in the women’s game.

After a solid showing at the ANA Inspiration, the Cavan golfer soared to new heights at the weekend with her best ever finish on the LPGA Tour.

Some “smart choices” on the course and the guidance of caddie Gary Marshall helped her come in tied second at the Lotte Championship in Hawaii.

The 26-year-old, who climbs into the world top-100 for first time, carded a final round 65 to leave her 21-under for the tournament.

Maguire’s display in Hawaii also pocketed her $125,000 and delivered the best performance by an Irish player in the 71-year history of the LPGA.

It laid down a massive marker and points towards Leona winning on the women’s main tour in the near future.

It’ll also enhance her chances of representing Europe in the Solheim Cup in Ohio in September.

Maguire played beautifully and it was just unfortunate that she came up against a rejuvenated Lydia

Ko who shot an astonishing 28 under par for the week. There’s not a lot you can do about that.

Leona’s comfort levels are growing and that is the secret for any fledgling tour player.

Looking around the range, feeling at ease and having the belief you actually belong there is vital and she has that mindset now.

It was a pity the time difference meant very few Irish fans laid eyes on her achievement but (hopefully) when the first win does arrive, it’s on America’s East Coast.

The LPGA Tour is a massive step up in class and while Leona was a standout World No1 in the amateur ranks, it still took her time to find her feet after turning pro in 2018. A lot of credit must go to her management company Modest for giving her the kind of structure and support she needs to help her on her journey.

Niall Horan also deserves praise for helping develop the women’s game, something the likes of Leona has benefited from.

Maguire’s management, led by Mark Mcdonnell, has also raised awareness around the sport and it is wonderful to see those opportunities bear fruit.

We have a showcase event to look forward to this summer – the ISPS Handa World Invitational – when both the men and women will play for an equal purse in Northern Ireland.

Hopefully by then, we’ll be watching Ireland’s first LPGA Tour winner teeing it up.

Nothing is ever certain in golf, but the fact we’re talking about it at all is progress in itself.

Niall Horan also deserves praise IN THE SWING OF IT Leona Maguire has really found her feet at the top level of women’s golf recently