Lianna’s best finish in US collegiate golf gets dad’s approval
ENGLAND STAR FINISHES TIED-SECOND IN FLORIDA UNIVERSITY CHALLENGE
All experiences, whether good or bad, are key to her long-term development
Ian Bailey, Lianna’s dad
ENGLAND golf international Lianna Bailey has taken another step forward in her playing career as she finished second in a Florida tournament.
After taking up golf in Kirby Muxloe under the guidance of her father, PGA coach Ian, Lianna notably won the St Rule Trophy at St Andrew’s in 2018.
She is now in her second year at Oklahoma State University.
Playing for OSU in the UFC Challenge at Eagles Creek GC, Orlando, Florida, she finished tied second on -7 with rounds of 73, 68 and 68, for a total 209.
Her team finished fourth overall on -12, after shooting -14 on the last day.
This is Lianna’s best finish in collegiate golf so far, but Ian is confident she will go from strength to strength now, especially as Maja Stark, a Swedish international ranked ninth in the world amateur rankings has just joined the team.
Ian said: “As Lianna’s coach and as her dad, I feel the level she has so far achieved is down to her developing at her own pace.
“Parents ask me why I haven’t made a habit of walking with her on the golf course, especially during her formative years. When she hits poor shots I want her to feel confident to deal with the situation herself and having me stood there won’t encourage that!
“It’s a journey, not a race, so all experiences, whether good or bad, are key to her long-term development.
“All five of my kids play golf, with three of them playing at national and international levels, so the learning model we work to is working well and is one I would recommend.”