Ace Gemma putting county on the map (From Worcester News)

Ace Gemma putting county on the map

6:30pm Sunday 19th July 2009 in Search

STOURPORT schoolgirl Gemma Glenister put Worcestershire ladies’ golf on the national map when she finished joint second in the LGU gold medal final at Wellingborough Golf Club in Northamptonshire.

Qualifying on the lowest four-round aggregate score, Glenister went on to represent Ombersley Golf Club within a field of 100 other winners from across the Midlands and Southern Counties.

Glenister, who attends Martley’s Chantry High School, managed to score a gross six over par on the tough course and tied second with a nett two under, reducing her handicap to seven.

The youngster said: “I was delighted to finish in joint second. But I was even more pleased that I was three shots behind the winner, because I had two three-putts in the last three holes.

“It would have been extremely disappointed to find out those putts had cost me the title.”

Glenister is coached by her dad Graham, who is the head professional at Ombersley Golf Club.

The proud father said: “Gemma’s achievement is all the more special because she is not allowed any advice from me when she plays.

“As a professional, I am unable to coach or caddy during the round. Gemma has also been studying hard for GCSEs and, having finished them, is now looking forward to plenty of practice and play.

“There is no doubt she has the potential to become a pro herself one day. She already out-drives me on a regular basis.”

Gemma says her next ambition is to beat her dad of level scratch handicaps.

Wellingborough final standings: 1 Fran Wilson (Wexham Park, 82–13=69); 2= Julia Brook (Croham Hurst, 76–4=72); 2= Gemma Glenister (Ombersley, 80–8=72); 4 Helen Audaer (Harewood Downs, 91–17 =74); 5 Jan Smith (South Essex, 93–19 =74); 6 Justine Voss (Henley, 78–4=74).