POOL OF TALENT
Pamela Pretswell Asher believes the Ladies European Tour has hit its lowest ebb at a time when the circuit boasts its strongest pool of talent in the last five years. The 2017 campaign concludes on a high note this week with the Omega Dubai Ladies Classic involving a starstudded field at the Emirates Golf Club.
But the fact it is just the 14th event on the schedule shows what a tough year it has been for players like Pretswell Asher who are trying to make a living on the LET.
Five tournaments went by the wayside this year, leading to the departure of the circuit’s CEO, Ivan Khodabakhsh, pictured, in August.
During the Solheim Cup in Des Moines, LPGA commissioner Mike Whan revealed that he had instigated talks with Keith Pelley, chief executive of the men’s European Tour, to see what could be done to help the LET.
However, it emerged recently that the LET has declined the offer of assistance for the time being after being encouraged by the potential for a healthier 2018 schedule.
“No chance,” replied Pretswell Asher, who was on the LET committee before resigning earlier this year, to being asked if there was a possibility of as many as 24 events being on that list, which is expected to be unveiled at this week’s event in the UAE.
“I think you’d be looking at 18 events next year and, for me, that would probably be a good schedule.
“I think there is genuine interest, but whether that can be put in place for 2018, who
“For me, the sad thing is that talent ontheletatthe moment is the strongest it has been in the last five years”
PAMELA PRETSWELL ASHER knows. Even getting a couple back would be a start. But I think it will be 2019 before we really see a difference, so patience is the key.”
Speaking at an Aberdeen