Odwin makes history with golf championship berth

Emily Odwin became the first Barbadian to qualify for a major golf championship after topping the US Women’s Open Qualifier on Monday. The Southern Methodist University junior shot a 3-under 139 to share top honours with Sarah Lim of Saratoga, California, as the tournament concluded at The Olympic Club’s Lake Course in San Francisco.

 

Odwin won from a field of 76, including amateurs and professionals, with only the top three advancing to the US Women’s Open presented by Ally Financial. Rounds of 68 and an even-par 71 over 36 holes secured the Barbadian’s passage to her first major, taking place May 28–June 1 at Wisconsin’s Erin Hills Golf Course. She will join nearly 2 000 players from around the world to compete on the 6 835-yard, par-72 course.
The Barbados Golf Association (BGA) has hailed the landmark achievement by Odwin, who was a runner-up at last year’s Women’s Amateur Latin America tournament.

 

“It is with immense pride and joy that we extend our warmest congratulations to you on your phenomenal achievement of qualifying for the US Women’s Open,” BGA President David Phillips said in a release on Tuesday.

 

“This remarkable milestone is a testament to your unwavering dedication, exceptional talent, and relentless pursuit of excellence. You have not only made history but have also inspired countless aspiring golfers across Barbados and the Caribbean. Your hard work and determination have truly paid off, and we are thrilled to see you represent our nation on such a prestigious global stage.

 

“As you prepare for this incredible opportunity, know that the entire Barbados Golf Association and your fellow countrymen are behind you, cheering you on every step of the way. We have no doubt that you will continue to shine and make us all proud with your skill, grace, and sportsmanship.”

 

Odwin will next turn her attention to the NCAA Columbus Regional, May 5 -7 at the Ohio State University’s Scarlet Course. The top five teams after three days of stroke play will advance to the NCAA Championship, and the Mustangs are hoping to make it to that level for the third straight year. The 12-team regional field includes top seed Arkansas, LSU, Ohio State, Kansas, Houston, SMU, UNLV, Illinois, Kent State, Illinois State, Xavier and Oakland.

 

In her second season at SMU, Odwin is shooting 72.47 on the season, the sixth-best mark in SMU history. Her career scoring average of 72.50 is second at SMU. The Barbadian has 14 rounds of par or better in 2024-25.

(TF)