DRIVING FORCE CATRIONA GETS TO GRIPS WITH SCOTTISH AMATEURS

BRITAIN’S leading female golfer pitched in this week to help inspire Scotland’s best amateur players.

Catriona Matthew (38) from North Berwick was only too happy to help the Scottish Ladies Golfing Association’s (SLGA) current crop of young hopefuls as they prepared for a busy season at Craigielaw Golf Course in Aberlady, East Lothian.

A total of 24 amateurs representing National Squads A, B and C – many of whom harbour hopes to become professionals themselves – quizzed Catriona on life on the LPGA tour, her fitness regime and her golf game in a specially arranged Q & A session. Then it was off to the range where Catriona, the UK’s highest ranked player on the LPGA list at number 28, showed off her skills and ran the rule over the hopefuls’ swings.

Catriona, who last year became a mum for the first time, has won more than $5 million in prize money on the LPGA Tour and other women’s golf events since turning pro in 1994. But this week she was only too happy to go back to her roots.

The former three times Scottish Amateur Champion and UK Amateur title holder said: “I was delighted to come and give the benefit of my experience to Scotland’s up-and-coming amateur golfers. I have been really, really impressed by their swings.”

SLGA National Coach Kevin Craggs said: “It was a real honour for us that Catriona could come along and speak with the Scottish Amateur Ladies and pass on some tips and advice. She is admired by everyone for the way she plays the game and conducts herself and there is no doubt she will help to inspire our players, who are gearing up for the challenges ahead this summer.”