Junior stars take centre stage at AIG Women’s Open
Porthcawl, Wales - For the first time in its 49-year history, the AIG Women’s Open will feature a Guard of Honour formed by junior golfers to greet the new Champion as the prize presentation unfolds today at Royal Porthcawl.
The largest women’s sporting event ever staged in Wales, the Championship is breaking with tradition to underline its commitment to inspiring the next generation of golfers. At the heart of this new initiative are 14-year-old Holly Miles and 12-year-old Oliver Jones, who will carry the AIG Women’s Open Trophy and Smyth Salver—awarded to the leading amateur—into the presentation arena.
The pair, both from Llantrisant & Pontyclun Golf Club, will be joined by ten teammates to form the Guard of Honour. The club was named Junior Golf Club of the Year for Wales, recognised for its inclusive approach to junior development and emphasis on community and progression.
Zoe Ridgway, AIG Women’s Open Championship Director at The R&A, said: “We are proud to evolve the prize presentation in a way that reflects the values of the AIG Women’s Open. By involving young golfers in this important moment, we are recognising not only the achievements of our Champion but also the potential and passion of those who represent the future of our sport.
“It is a meaningful connection between today’s leaders and the emerging young talent. Hopefully, in the future we see some of these young juniors go onto compete in the AIG Women’s Open themselves.”
By placing young talent at the heart of its concluding ceremony, the Championship underlines a broader mission: to champion progress and spark ambition at every level of the game. The prize presentation will follow the final putt and be part of the live broadcast.