Play-off pandemonium in Vic Open

LARGE crowds took to 13th Beach Golf Links for the ISPS Handa Vic Open last week to see some of the world’s best golfers compete on the picturesque course.

The women’s category was particularly close-fought. After four rounds, Hee Young Park, Hye-Jin Choi and So Yeon Ryu, all from South Korea, were even on eight under par.

A play-off subsequently ensued on the 18th hole.

The trio finished at even again in the first play-off, with the second seeing So Yeon Ryu drop out.

It was not until the fourth play-off that a rare error from Hye-Jin Choi allowed Hee Young Park to claim victory.

Speaking to Golf Australia, Park credited her fellow countrywomen for their skill.

“I’m getting old compared to other Korean girls on the LPGA and they keep grinding.

“I’m just giving back to inspire to other young golfers.”

Min Woo Lee had a superb tournament to win the men’s category.

The 21-year-old showed bested many experienced pros, winning by two shots despite some late nerves showing on Sunday.

After making the winning putt he was congratulated by his sister Minjee Lee, who won the Vic Open in both 2014 and 2018.

Speaking to Golf Australia, Lee said he was pleased to have shown the world his skills.

“I always knew I had the ability to be one of the top players in the world and I think I’ve shown this week that, for myself as well, that I could play under pressure and play pretty comfortably and shoot a low score.

“I’m not going to say what I can be and who I can be, but I’m really excited for the next year and next few years.”

While she did not quite manage to win the women’s category, So Yeon Ryu won plenty of fans, donating half her prize money from the event to the Australian Bushfire Appeal.