Celebrating the Champions of the FNQ Women's Golf Championship Marion Wright and Chloe Pratley Share Their Insights

The FNQ Women's Golf Championship recently wrapped up with intense competition and remarkable performances. Two exceptional players stood out: Marion Wright, who claimed the title of Overall Winner, and Chloe Pratley, who was recognised as the Junior Champion. Their accomplishments showcase not only their dedication but also serve as an inspiration to many women golfers throughout Far North Queensland.

Marion Wright, Overall Winner of the FNQ Women's Golf Championship.

In this post, we will take a closer look at the championship, the unique challenges of the course, and the personal insights from both winners.

The Course Conditions: A Challenge Accepted

Golfers always face varying course conditions, and the FNQ Women's Golf Championship presented its own set of challenges. Marion and Chloe were each asked "Did you think the course played well?"

Marion shared her thoughts on the playability of the course:

"The course was playing long as there was a  strong wind both days. There are also lots of bunkers being a links style course which are strategically placed (89 in total) so lots to avoid."

Chloe agreed, emphasising her eagerness to play the course again:

"The event was the first time I have played at Palmer Sea Reef and only the second links course I have played. The position of some bunkers made a few holes tricky for me. I loved the course and can’t wait to play there again when it’s not as wet to experience it in the dry."

Both players found the conditions challenging, setting the stage for dynamic and exciting play.

Highlights of the Event: A Celebration of Talent

Events like the FNQ Women’s Golf Championship highlight the talent and camaraderie among women golfers. Marion appreciated the connections she made with other competitors and responded to the question "What did you like best about the event?":

"The best part of the event, for me, was playing in the last group & being in the mix to win."

Chloe added to this sentiment, noting:

"I like two day events, it provides a chance to get familiar with the course. I had nice playing partners and learned some things playing with them."

Chloe Pratley receiving her prize at the FNQ Women's Golf Championship.

Tough Conditions: Strategies for Success

The championship encountered rough weather on Sunday, which required players to adapt their strategies. Marion explained her approach to staying composed:

The day demanded a focus on maintaining composure through the tough conditions. "Just keep everything dry", Marion kept telling herself.

Chloe emphasised the importance of taking it one step at a time:

"Conditions were terrible for a while. The rough and bunkers became really difficult after the rain and I didn’t have enough strength to get out of the wet rough so it became difficult to score well. I was just trying to keep it on the fairways and out of the bunkers and stay as dry as I can in the wet. I laid up a few times to avoid bunkers when I would have gone for it in the dry."

Both winners demonstrate that mental resilience is just as crucial as physical skill in overcoming the demands of competitive play.

Navigating the Greens: A Skillful Approach

Players had to master the complexities of the greens, especially with difficult pin placements, notably on the challenging 5th hole. Marion explained her systematic approach:

"Trust your shot distance. Also, I try to play to a spot where if I miss the green, I would have an easier chip. FYI, I 3 putted the 5th."

Chloe shared her own technique:

"The greens were really tricky and some of the pins were so hard. I really haven’t seen pins positioned like that before, they required a lot of consideration. A couple were wild. I always try and walk up the fairway to see the green and the pin before playing a blind shot. That helps me pick a line and work out a distance and then I have to trust my decision. "

Their thoughtful strategies demonstrate both their understanding and adaptability on the course.

A Unified Community of Golfers

These champions clearly show their commitment to uplifting their golfing community, encouraging more women from Far North Queensland to participate in the sport.

A stunning view of the FNQ golf course during the championship.

Final Reflections

The FNQ Women's Golf Championship not only displayed the incredible talents of Marion Wright and Chloe Pratley but also reminded us of the vibrant community of women golfers in Far North Queensland. Their insights provide valuable lessons on resilience, strategy, and the joy found in shared experiences in golf.

More numbers at the event would have been nice. And, as we celebrate these champions, let us also recognise the new pathways they are creating for future generations in the sport. A key takeaway from the event and these reflections show that the event was not solely focused on winning but also on building relationships and fostering community among players.