More than 300 young golfers entered this year’s Wales Mini Masters – a record number – with the final at Celtic Manor still to come at the end of this month.
More than 50 clubs from around Wales were represented in the competition, which has proved a breeding ground for many of the top players. It is supported by Wales Golf and Celtic Manor Resort as part of the continued legacy from the Ryder Cup in Wales, along with golf ball brand Volvik.
The largest area of growth has been in the number of girls taking part in the event, which reflects the schemes put in place by Wales Golf. There were also more venues taking part than ever before, an improved standard of play, and an event held in Pembrokeshire for the first time.
The benefit of the Wales Mini Masters, which is now in its ninth years, was emphasised with the success of former winners. Lea Anne Bramwell captured the Welsh Ladies Amateur champion, Tomi Bowen won the Wales Under 16 title, while two former finalists competed in the Under 14 category, with Kasumi Tran beating Zak Baker to become champion.
Tournament organiser Andrew Jones said: “This has been an excellent year for the Wales Mini Masters, with the number of entries increasing by 50 per cent. The increase in numbers is linked to the increase in the number of venues from five to seven, and we are hoping to increase that to eight next year with an extra event in North Wales.”
He added: “Next year will be the 10th season of the Mini Masters. Since inception, the event has been truly open to all, with many disabled golfers taking part – and winning. Wales international Lea-Ann Bramwell is just one of the growing number of Welsh Mini Masters players who have gone on to achieve success in their young golfing careers. Many of the younger Welsh squads have considerable representation from players who have participated in the event.”
The Welsh Mini Masters finals will be played at Celtic Manor on October 30.