The Women’s Irish Challenge marks the first time the LET Access Series (LETAS) has visited Ireland, and 13 Irish players are set to make their mark at this unprecedented event.
Northern Ireland’s Olivia Mehaffey is one of two Irish professionals in the field this week and is incredibly excited to play close to home.
Speaking ahead of the week, Mehaffey said: “I’m really excited for this week. Anytime you get to play at home is nice and obviously the Irish Open has been so successful over the years so it’s great to have a LETAS event here as well.”
Mehaffey, who hails from County Armagh, is teeing it up in an Irish pairing this week with amateur Aine Donegan who is currently ranked 57th on WAGR. They are also joined by two-time LETAS winner Fernanda Lira.
“I haven’t played with Aine before, but I have watched her progress over the years. It will be great to have an Irish group and hopefully we will have some Irish support out there too.
“I just love playing in Ireland. People in Ireland love golf. I think we will have quite a lot of people watching this week which will be nice.”
Mehaffey is joined by her fiancé Mikey Boal on the bag, who has been aside her all season. The 27-year-old also expects to see some familiar faces in the crowd.
“I think some of my family will also be coming out and some of my sponsors as well. I’m staying with my sponsors’ mum and dad which is nice as they are both members of the club.
“Malahide is great. It’s been so nice to see how much work and prep has been put into the course.
“The greens are so good and it’s a very typical Irish parkland course. It will be a good test for everybody.”
Mehaffey has played between the LET and LETAS this season. Her highest finish has been tied 33rd at Madaef Golfs Ladies Open back in April.
“The season so far has had disappointing results, but I have improved in lots of ways.
“This is the first year where I’ve balanced between two tours. It’s tough. I want to play so it doesn’t really matter where I’m playing.”
This week sees the inaugural edition of the Women’s Irish Challenge held at Malahide Golf Club between the 27-29 August.
The event will see 126 players tee it up across 54 holes of golf for a prize fund of €45,000.
For more information on tournament and the LET Access Series, visit letaccess.com and follow @LETAccess on Facebook, Instagram and X #Access2LET.
