The first round of the Ricoh Women’s British Open is under way on the Marquess’ course at Woburn Golf Club.
Today, 144 golfers from 29 nations begin their pursuit of the fourth women’s Major Championship of 2016 as it is played for the 40th occasion. The field includes 26 Major champions and 41 Rio 2016 Olympic Games competitors.
It’s the 10th time that the championship has been played at Woburn but the first on the spectacular Marquess’ Course.
World No.1 Lydia Ko begins her quest for a third Major at 11.59 and she will be playing with Sweden’s Linda Wessberg and Woburn’s home favourite Charley Hull. The next group at 12.10 includes Japan’s Ai Miyazato and past Major winners Michelle Wie and Lexi Thompson from the United States.
Spain’s Beatriz Recari had the honour of hitting the first tee shot at 6.30am and Canadian Brooke Henderson is among the early starters at 7.14 paired with Sweden’s Anna Nordqvist and Spain’s Azahara Munoz. England’s Laura Davies starts her 32nd consecutive Open at 6.52 along with Solheim Cup stars Suzann Pettersen and Alison Lee. Other British stars to look out for include Melissa Reid (11.26) and 2009 champion Catriona Matthew (7.03).
