Wales’ Lydia Hall Wins Final Qualifier Spot Down Under

By Hannah Blackwell

Lydia Hall has stormed to victory in Australia at the final 2025 Ford Women’s New South Wales Open Regional Qualifying Event at Duntryleague in Orange.

The Welsh golfer delivered a commanding performance, finishing 11-under par across two rounds (64-69) to book her spot in next year’s Ford Women’s NSW Open at Wollongong Golf Club.

Hall started well, sinking three birdies early in Round 2 on Tuesday, but hit a couple of speed bumps with bogeys on four and six.

Unfazed, she bounced back with birdies on seven and eight and, despite another bogey on 10, she kept her composure to finish strongly with birdies on 15 and 16.

“Obviously super pleased, really happy that I got it across the line and had a big lead going into today,” said Hall.

“That’s always a challenge in itself. I managed to steady the ship through the middle part of the round. A couple of dodgy putts, but really happy to get over the line.”

Welsh veteran and World Sand Greens champ @LydiasGolf put on a masterful display to lead the Women’s NSW Open Regional Qualifier at Duntryleague.

Story: https://t.co/6sYl6Qolfz@GolfNSW | @NewSouthWales pic.twitter.com/3W4kSDS245

— WPGA Tour of Australasia (@WPGATour) December 16, 2024

It wasn’t all smooth sailing, but 36-year-old Hall’s strategic play got the job done.

“It was a little bit scratchy off the tee, but I managed to get it back in play using 3-wood and other options. And a lot of birdies – so that always helps the scorecard.”

Playing alongside Claire Shin for the third straight day and her partner, Amy Walsh, made the win even more memorable.

“Claire’s just so calm and even-keeled, nothing phases her, which is great for her future. And playing with Amy – that’s the first time we’ve ever played a tournament round together, so that was an experience in itself.”

Over 17 years on Tour and @LydiaHallGolf is still as competitive as ever #RaiseOurGame | #SEETheImpact pic.twitter.com/grFc4lVUc7

— Ladies European Tour (@LETgolf) November 8, 2024

With another win in the bag, Hall is now ready to relax.

“We’re driving straight back to Canberra to see the family and my two nieces. We might sneak in a little Bali trip for New Year before training kicks off again in January,” she added.

Looking ahead to next year, Hall has her sights set on a strong showing at the 2025 Ford Women’s NSW Open at Wollongong.

“I’m really excited. I’ve secured my spot, and my Order of Merit position on the WPGA should get me into the other two events as well. It’s a really exciting few months ahead.”