Marita Engzelius and Suzann Petterson
An estimated 5000 spectators witnessed the battle of the continents as Suzann Pettersen invited some of female golf’s most famous names to raise money for charity and to grow the game of female golf.
For the second year, Suzann Pettersen invited the stars of the LPGA and LET to join her at her home course in Oslo, Norway, in order to raise money for the “Right To Play” foundation.
Last years event featured names like Yani Tseng, Annika Sorenstam and Lorena Ochoa. This year’s Challenge was formed as a competition between teams from four “continents”. Yani Tseng returned and together with Ai Miyazato represented Team Asia. Beatriz Recari and Sandra Gal made up Team Europe, Jessica Korda and Paula Creamer competed for Team USA, while LPGA/Symetra Tour/ LET Access Series member Marita Engzelius together with Suzann Pettersen represented Team Norway. The line-up was made for a truly intercontinental golf spectacular in Oslo on 7 September.
The format of the tournament was fourball, and the teams switched opponents every six holes. At the end Team Asia came out victorious after finishing -10. Team Norway finished -8, Team Europe -5 and Team USA at 4 under par.
The event turned out to be a big boost for Norwegian golf with an estimated 5000 spectators following the final two groups.
“I know all the girls well. They are positive, outgoing and lovely girls who know what it takes to give spectators a great golf experience,” said Suzann Pettersen.
The event raised approximately 1,000,000 NOK for Right To Play, the organization receiving the donations from the fundraising. The money was raised mainly through the Saturday charity dinner and entrance fee.
“I feel incredibly privileged to be able to devote myself to the one thing that I enjoy the most. Unfortunately, many kids are not as fortunate as I was growing up. To see the girls performing at my home course in front of the crowds knowing this will help so many children in third world countries, really moved my heart,” Pettersen added.
