Nicola Sparks Memorial Junior Trophy & announcement of the new Junior Captain for 2025
21 November, 2024
Burford Golf Club hosted the annual Nicola Sparks Memorial Junior Trophy at the end of October. Nicola passed away in 2007 and the competition was established in her memory – she was a talented golfer who represented her club and County many times, being crowned County Champion 5 times and was also County Captain. She was a keen supporter of junior golf and this competition remains a wonderful tribute to her. Our thanks once again go to her memorial Trust and Burford Golf Club for continuing to support and host the event.
Despite the misty weather it was a great day with some fantastic golf being played by the girls. The winner of the Trophy, with a fantastic 39 stableford points, was Kirsty Soffe of Burford Golf Club. Ava Fegan-Smith of Studley Wood was second on 36 points, Hajira Marfleet was third, also on 36 points.
The event is also a chance to reflect on the golfing year and to celebrate the numerous successes achieved by the County squad – these include the winning the Midlands South Handicap Final, the Midland South Team Stableford, and perhaps most importantly, once again winning the annual match against the Oxfordshire Boys team!
There were two more Trophies awarded on day – the first for the most improved golfer of the year, based on reduction in handicap, and this went to Charlotte Gosling-Evans (left above) of The Springs who reduced her handicap by a very impressive 11.3 shots. The second, the Boddington Trophy, is awarded to the golfer who the Junior Committee feel has demonstrated great commitment to the Junior squad, both in playing matches and also supporting the Academy training and playing sessions throughout the year. The recipient of this award for 2024 was Ava Fegan-Smith (right above). Well done to both girls!
Then it was time to say a big thank you and good bye to the outgoing Junior Captain, Elizabeth Ball. Elizabeth was unfortunately injured for a significant part of the year so was not able to play as much golf as she would have wished, but still has attended a number of events to support the team before heading off to University in September – thank you Elizabeth for all you have done this year.
Finally, we were delighted to announce that Kirsty Soffe will be the new Junior Girls Captain for 2025 – good luck Kirsty and wishing you and the team every success for next year!