New Zealand’s Amelia Garvey has made a brilliant start to life on the Ladies European Tour (LET) registering five top-10s in her rookie season including a runner-up finish at the Wistron Ladies Open.
Born in Manchester, England, Garvey started playing golf at the age of six and represented New Zealand throughout her teenage years before being recruited by the University of Southern California (USC).
During her collegiate years, the Kiwi would finish runner-up at both the Women’s Amateur Championship and Pac-12 Championship. She also qualified for the prestigious Augusta National Women’s Championship (ANWA).
After graduating from USC, Garvey – known for her long-distance off the tee – would compete on the Epson Tour before making the switch over to Europe. The now 25-year-old finished fourth at LET Q-School to earn a full card on the circuit.
Currently 12th in the Order of Merit with two events left to play in 2025, we caught up with Garvey to hear all about her golfing journey…
How did you start playing golf?
“I started playing golf when my dad bought me a set of plastic clubs for my 6th birthday, I played a lot of other sports growing up as well but took to golf very quickly and loved it!”
When did you want to be a professional golfer?
“I knew I wanted to turn professional after playing in my first New Zealand Women’s open, at the time an LET event, when I was only 13-years-old. I just found it amazing that I could potentially do this for a living one day.”
Why did you choose USC and how was your experience there?
“I picked USC because I loved the environment. It felt like everyone there was hard working and was there to achieve high levels of success within both sports and academics. Also living in California was a dream, especially the weather!”
Why did you come to LET Q-School?
“I came to LET Q-School because my cousin Jamie Tipper, a caddie on the LET, had been out there for a few months after having VISA trouble in the states. He said I would love it.
“I had also been struggling a little on Epson to get my LPGA card so I decided that I wanted to make the move. It was easier than expected because I have family in the UK so I have been able to use that as my base this year which has been handy!”
How are you finding life on the LET so far?
“I’ve absolutely loved my rookie season on the LET. I feel like it has exceeded my expectations. The places we have been able to travel to have been amazing and my friends and I have really made the most of it. Everyone is so friendly on the LET and it has been pretty easy to make friends along the way.
“The courses have suited my game a lot more than over in the states so I feel like I have been able to take advantage of certain parts of my game a lot more.
“It was also incredible to get the opportunity to play in the Women’s Scottish Open and the AIG Women’s Open in my rookie year, and although I didn’t quite perform the best at those events, I’m looking forward to hopefully be able to compete in them again next year.”
Quickfire Q&A
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