CARTON HOUSE, Ireland — English amateur golfer Lottie Woad continued her dominant performance at the Women's Irish Open, carding a bogey-free six-under 67 in the third round to extend her lead to a commanding seven shots heading into the final day at Carton House.
The 19-year-old rising star, who plays for Florida State University, showcased remarkable composure and precision on the Montgomerie Course, sinking six birdies without dropping a single shot. Her flawless round leaves her at 14-under par overall, firmly in control of the tournament ahead of a chasing pack that includes seasoned professionals.
A Masterclass in Consistency
Woad's performance has been nothing short of spectacular throughout the tournament. After opening with a solid 70 on Thursday, she fired a scintillating 65 on Friday to take a three-shot lead into moving day. Her third-round 67 demonstrated her ability to maintain momentum under pressure. "I just tried to stay patient and stick to my game plan," Woad said afterward. "The course suits my eye, and I've been putting really well."
Key aspects of Woad's dominant display include:
- Averaging 265 yards off the tee
- Hitting 83% of greens in regulation
- Converting 90% of putts inside 10 feet
- Playing the par-5s at 8-under for the tournament
The Chasing Pack
While Woad has stolen the headlines, several professionals remain in contention. France's Anne-Lise Caudal sits second at seven-under after a steady 70, while Sweden's Lisa Pettersson and England's Gabriella Cowley share third at six-under. "Lottie's playing incredible golf, but anything can happen in the final round," cautioned Caudal.
Notable Performances
Other standout rounds came from:
- Scotland's Michele Thomson (66, the low round of the day)
- Ireland's Leona Maguire (69, moving up to T12)
- Defending champion Klara Spilkova (70, T8)
Amateur Making History
Woad is attempting to become just the second amateur to win on the Ladies European Tour this season, following Chiara Noja's victory at the Aramco Team Series - Bangkok. No amateur has ever won the Women's Irish Open since its inception in 1994. "I'm trying not to think about records or history," Woad admitted. "I'll just focus on playing my own game tomorrow."
The Surrey native has already enjoyed a stellar amateur career, including:
- 2022 R&A Girls' Amateur Champion
- 2023 European Ladies' Team Championship winner
- Current World No. 12 in the Women's Amateur Golf Rankings
- 2024 Curtis Cup squad member
Final Round Expectations
With favorable weather forecast and the course playing firm and fast, low scores are expected in the final round. Tournament director Mike Stewart noted: "We've set the course up to reward aggressive play, so we could see some fireworks tomorrow. Lottie's got a big lead, but golf is a funny game."
Key factors to watch in the final round:
- Woad's ability to handle the pressure of a big lead
- Whether the chasing pack can post an early low number
- Potential changes in wind direction affecting strategy
- The raucous home support for Irish players Maguire and Olivia Mehaffey
What's at Stake
Beyond the €60,000 winner's check (which Woad can't claim as an amateur), victory would:
- Earn a two-year exemption on the Ladies European Tour
- Provide valuable Solheim Cup qualification points
- Boost Woad's chances of turning professional later this year
- Mark one of the most impressive amateur victories in recent European golf history
As the sun set over Carton House, all eyes turned to Sunday's finale. Whether Woad can complete her fairytale week or whether one of the chasing pack can mount a dramatic comeback promises to make for compelling viewing. The final round begins at 8:30 AM local time, with Woad teeing off in the final group at 1:40 PM alongside Caudal and Pettersson.
