Moree’s rising superstar golfer Annabelle Abrahamsen will be one to watch out for in years to come, if her recent gold-medal winning performance in America is anything to go by.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The young golfer recently returned from a dream golfing trip to the United States where she competed in three tournaments against some of the best junior golfers in the world.
This was Annabelle’s second trip to America, and easily her most successful, coming home with a gold medal and champion plaque and proving that she has what it takes to be amongst the best of the best.
The first tournament she competed in was the IMG World Junior Golf Championship, held at Torrey Pines Golf Course in San Diego, Southern California.
This was the first time Annabelle competed in this tournament, considered the world’s biggest junior tournament. To gain selection, Annabelle had to send in her portfolio and be considered to be of world standard.
Annabelle competed in the 11-12 years age division at Bernardo Heights Country Club, where the course was a tight undulating parkland layout, highlighted by extensive vegetation and views of the city of San Diego.
“This tournament was a big test for me as jet lag and adjusting to humid summer conditions affected the quality of golf I played at the end of rounds,” Annabelle said.
“At the conclusion of the tournament I finished in the lower half of the field, but I was left feeling I did not show my potential.”
Annabelle and her parents, Bernadette and Michael Abrahamsen, then travelled to Las Vegas, Nevada to join her fellow Australian Junior Golf team members for her second event – the IJGA World Stars of Junior Golf, held at Paiute Golf Resort.
After the three-day tournament, Annabelle’s score of 77-77-82 propelled her to a 12th place finish – the highest placed girl in the Australian team.
“Being precise on this links course was key; avoiding bunkers, rattle snakes and playing in high wind conditions was a test of my abilities,” Annabelle said.
“I used every club in the bag that week.”
The final tournament, the Amateur Athletic Union West Coast Junior Olympics, was held in the Murrieta Valley in Southern California at the Legends Country Club, Temecula.
After three days of play, Annabelle finished first with scores of 89-79-82, earning her the gold medal and champion plaque for her age division.
“I was thrilled to be the overall winner and receive the gold medal and champion plaque,” she said.
“I had a slow start on day one, almost perfect round on day two to get the lead, and pulled away on the final day.”
Bernadette and Michael couldn’t be prouder of Annabelle.
“Her golf just excites me so much,” Bernadette said.
“We’re so proud of her, she’s really grown into her golf.
“She spent 25 out of 28 days we were there on course.
“She’s loving it and is so dedicated for a 12-year-old.”
Annabelle now automatically qualifies for each of the three events every year from now on and is planning to head back to America again next year.
She would like to thank all the Moree businesses, Moree Golf Club, Veterans Golf and individuals who supported her trip, as well as the patrons of Moree Golf Club for supporting her fundraising raffle.
Annabelle would also like to acknowledge Moree Golf Club professional Matt McGuire for his guidance which enabled her to compete with the world’s best.