Play Better Golf

With Niall McGill

Proud Megan Ashley has lifted the Perth and Kinross Ladies’ County Championship for the first time.

The 20-year-old Blairgowrie member defeated Eilidh Watson 3&2 in the showpiece final at Strathmore Golf Centre.

Megan, returning to competitive action for the first time since October, was delighted to be back playing alongside county team-mates.

“I really loved playing the final,” Megan said. “Eilidh had just taken her semi-final match to the 22nd hole which was really exciting.

“Going into the match I just wanted to have as much fun as possible.

“I had already been playing really well in my previous matches so it was just a case of keeping my rhythm going and my energy levels up.

“I was very pleased with the consistency across my game and everything was just fitting into place.

“And I was so pleased with keeping a level head and taking it one shot at a time when the pressure came on.

“I loved it - despite the horrific weather - and it was so special to win.

“It’s the first time I’ve won the county champs and I’ve been playing with them for quite a few years now.”

While now playing out of Blairgowrie, Megan grew up on the fairways of Strathmore and knows the course better than most.

“It was even better to win it at Strathmore – I love it there,” she added. “I know it really well but I had to make sure I kept focused.

“It’s quite easy to fall into the trap of assuming you’re going to play well just because you know the course well.

“But I think it does suit my game. It’s not too long so I’m able to get close to the greens, which are really tricky.

“I’m just comfortable there. Growing up and playing there as a junior made it easier to adapt as my game changed.”

Megan hopes her strong early-season form continues into the summer and has sights set on two high-profile events.

“The past couple of months have been hard but quite relaxing,” she said.

“I’ve had university work to keep me busy when I’m not on the golf course but I’ve mostly been playing at Blairgowrie.

“I love the Wee Course there.

“It’s a great challenge and there’s so many ways to play it. I can practice while on a course.

“I’m excited to see what happens this year. The schedule is looking better than last year at least.

“My next major event is the Scottish Women’s Amateur Championship which is being played at Gullane in early June.

“It’s really exciting to be able to start travelling a little further to play. I miss seeing more of Scotland and the other players.

“The Helen Holm Championship has also been rescheduled for late June which I’m pleased about as I love going to Troon.”

Last Sunday’s action at Strathmore also included the Perth and Kinross Ladies’ Handicap County Championship.

Gwen Munro, a member at Dunkeld and Birnam Golf Club, claimed the trophy following a great game and 4&3 win against Liz Milligan.

Perth and Kinross Ladies County Golf Association is now looking forward to a successful year out on the course.