The LET Access Series (LETAS) got underway earlier this month with the season starting at Peralada Golf for the Santander Golf Tour-GIRONA.
There were plenty of rookies in the mix in the season opener as LETAS veteran Lucie Andre took home the win.
After battling with windy and cold conditions throughout the week, 11 rookies made the cut to the final day which fell at +nine over par.
The rookies who were through to the weekend included: Chloe Salort, Sofie Kibsgaard Nielsen, Tia Teiniketo, Lianna Bailey, Emily Price, Eloise Healey, Charlotte Alran, Martina Flori, Puk Lyng Thomsen, Lara Ok and Elodie Chapelet
England’s Emily Price showed consistency in the first two days placing herself second in the leaderboard heading into the final day after rounds of 69 and 70.
But come the final day, Denmark’s Sophie Kibsgaard Nielsen moved up the leaderboard to finish in T-1 position.
After a tense five-way playoff, After two holes in the play-off, Kibsgaard Nielsen was knocked out after making a bogey. Price, was the third of the players to be knocked out.
“It was so good to be back competing with all the other girls again.” Kibsgaard Nielsen said. “I was so excited to play in Girona, and despite the weather I really enjoyed the tournament.
“It’s always nice to play Santander tour and LETAS events.
However, it wasn’t the first time the Danish player found herself in the playoff.
“I was a bit surprised when I found out about the playoff but super excited. I actually played the last two events in 2022, and I was in the playoff in the last one. So back to back!”
Speaking about her goals for 2022, Kibsgaard Nielsen said:
“My goal is to make it to the LET. Win some tournaments this year and prepare myself and my game so I can keep improving.
“Also, to have fun and enjoy every part of it. I’m playing golf full time now and it’s something I’ve dreamt of. So this year is very exciting! Also because I have to learn this way of living with traveling.”
Meanwhile England’s Emily Price also enjoyed her start to the season.
“I really enjoyed playing Santander Girona. It was my first LETAS event and I had a great experience on and off the golf course.
“Even though the weather conditions were tough the course was in lovely condition and I had fun playing.
“The playoff was exciting, and gave me confidence to know I can compete and potentially win at this level.
“The biggest teaching for me was to try and remain at a constant state of mind and execute each shot just as I would at home.
“The playoff brought some adrenaline and nerves along and learning to control them was a great experience that I need to take forward.
Speaking about the rest of the year, Price said: “I’m really excited to keep playing this season and hopefully keep contending.
“My goal is to play one shot at a time with 100% effort, give me self opportunities and have fun.”
Elsewhere, Lianna Bailey ended the tournament strong on T-10 and Puk Lyng Thomsen and Tia Teiniketo one shot further back on T-14.
France’s Chloe Salort finished in shared spot of T-20, Germany’s Lara Ok in 26th position with Belmati and Chapelet in T-27.
Switzerland’s Charlotte Alran and England’s Eloise Healey both tied in 36th position with Martina Flori three shots behind in 44th.
Next up for the rookies is the Terre Blanche Ladies Open on the 13th – 15th April.
