Young WA superstar Kirsten Rudgeley is the leading lady after carding a 3-under in the opening round of the Player series at Rosebud Country Club in Victoria. Fresh from an outstanding December with wins at the Port Phillip Open and Victorian Amateur, our local West Aussie talent is tied for 7th going into the remaining three days of play.
IPS HANDA PGA of Australasia Tour and WPGA Tour have combined forces for the Victorian format of the Player Series. Leading male, female and amateurs compete with promising junior talent included in the weekend rounds.
Speaking with the PGA following her afternoon round, Kirsten shared her experience on competing in professional events to date.
I have played in the WA Open three times and Bonville so this is probably my fourth or fifth event. It’s cool that we’re mixed with the boys, it’s not two separate scores. I’m enjoying it so far, everyone’s looking after me. I was fortunate to receive an invite through Golf Australia maybe four weeks ago. I’m not sure whether it was because of the Vic Amateur or not but either way it’s handy.
My game’s definitely got better since Bonville. Mum and Dad said the same thing, I’m just here for the experience really. Whatever happens, happens, that’s the way to think. Any tournaments I get to play in is one step forward, that’s the way I look at it. Especially an event like this. It’s the first one ever being played so pretty happy with having the chance to be able to play.
NSW rookie Nathan Barbieri has a three-shot lead going into today’s second round after carding an impressive 10-under 61.
Broadcast details: Live on Fox Sports 503 and Kayo Saturday 30 January 2-5pm and Sunday 31 January 12-5pm AEDT
Image courtesy of PGA Australia.
