2023 AIG Women's Open in Surrey challenges golfers with dry conditions

Posted : 12 August 2023

As the 2023 AIG Women's Open enters the weekend, the distinct challenges presented by Walton Heath's course have been commended as "an incredible test for golfers." The initial two rounds in Surrey have enjoyed predominantly dry and stable conditions, with the fairways firming up after earlier damp practice rounds.

However, any errant shots off the tee have often led to complications due to the combination of sheer-faced bunkers, thick rough, and the notoriously challenging heather found on the Surrey heathland.

Discussions about the heathland plant have dominated press conferences in the lead-up, with many players reflecting on their encounters with the demanding conditions.

Gaby Lopez, who carded back-to-back 70s to reach the weekend at four-under, emphasized the significance of accurate drives. She mentioned her experience of landing in the heather, describing it as stressful due to the uncertainty of how the ball will react.

Andrea Lee, part of the final group on Saturday trailing leader Ally Ewing by five shots, shared that saving par after hitting heather on the 15th felt like a birdie. Perrine Delacour, also within the top 10 entering the weekend, echoed this sentiment, underlining the cautious approach players adopt in such situations.

Aside from the heather discussion, the par-5 holes have proven to be particularly lucrative in the opening rounds, especially the 16th. Out of the 25 eagles recorded, 18 occurred at this hole, which has averaged around 4.3, lower than four of the par-4s on the course.

Three of the four most accessible holes are the par-5s, demonstrating that, despite the emphasis on hitting fairways, success can still be achieved even when off the ideal path. Charley Hull demonstrated this on the 11th, where despite encountering rough and a bunker, she secured a birdie.

Jodi Ewart Shadoff, while not as familiar with the course, has embraced the challenge. She described Walton Heath as a unique blend of links and parkland characteristics, visually intimidating off the tee due to the omnipresent sea of purple heather.

As the weekend approaches, the course is expected to become "firm and fast" with increasing winds and possible showers. This prompts speculation about the course's evolution and how different players might adapt.

Scotland's Gemma Dryburgh is looking forward to the wind challenge, stating she usually excels in such conditions. Minjee Lee has pledged an "aggressive" approach to close the gap on the leader. Meanwhile, world number one Nelly Korda's strategy is simple: avoid the heather, stay in the fairway, capitalize on opportunities, and aim for steady pars in challenging conditions.

2023 AIG Women's Open in Surrey challenges golfers with dry conditions

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