Kirsten Rudgeley achieved her goal of becoming a member of the Ladies European Tour (LET) in December at La Manga Club.
The Australian made it safely through the first week in Spain in a share of fifth place after taking on the North and South courses.
Rounds of 68, 75, 69, 75 and 68 saw Rudgeley finish the Final Qualifier on six-under-par in T9 and secure full status for the LET in 2023.
Speaking at the time, she said: “It hasn’t sunk it yet that I’m in the top 20 and have my LET card, but I was due a good round here at Q-School and I’m glad that it came today.
“It’s been a long two weeks and I’m glad it’s done but also glad that I’ve managed to finish on a high. All the work was definitely worth it.”
Earlier in 2022, Rudgeley competed in the two co-sanctioned Australian events on the LET as she finished T29 at the Australian Women’s Classic and T10 at the Women’s NSW Open.
The 21-year-old turned professional at the beginning of December ahead of the Australian Open before heading to Europe to Let Q-School.
It’s set to be a stellar year as 2023 sees a record-breaking LET schedule to look forward to with the biggest prize money in the organisation’s 45-year history.
Rudgeley was delighted with how the end of last year panned out and hopes to follow in the footsteps of fellow Aussie Steph Kyriacou.
She added: “The plan was always to come to LET Q-School at the end of the year. I played in the Australian Open and they gave me a spot as a professional, so I turned pro ahead of that. I was going to turn pro after LET Q-School if not, so it’s all worked out perfectly.
“It has definitely changed my life and the life of my family. I’m very proud of myself. On the LET, I looked up to Steph [Kyriacou] as she’s been here and done it. I played a lot of amateur golf with her. If I could follow in footsteps, then I’ll be doing well.”
As one of the latest stars to join the Tour, here are a few quick fire questions with the LET rookie.
Favourite food?
It would probably be lasagne and we’ve been going to a pub up the road and had lasagne every night. It’s done me well.
Favourite film?
I do like the Hangover, that’s a funny movie.
Nickname?
My nickname is curly because of my hair. When I was little I used to play football, or soccer, and everyone used to call me curly.
Favourite course?
I’m going to have to say Augusta National. I’ve been there and played it and it’s an awesome place.
Favourite club?
My 58 degree wedge, it does me well.
Hero?
I look up to Karrie Webb, an Australian icon and all-time fame. She’s done so many good things for female amateur golfers.
Dream fourball?
Karrie Webb, Tiger Woods, Tommy Fleetwood and Rory Mcllroy.
Something we don’t know?
I played football when I was younger and had to choose between golf and football. I chose golf and hopefully it’s the right choice!
