CHALLENGING winds and testing greens weren't going to prevent Chelsea Litchfield from claiming her sixth straight Bathurst Women's Club Championships A grade title over the weekend.
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Litchfield started off superbly in the opening weekend's play with rounds of 74 and 73 before battling well through harder conditions to shoot 76 and 74 for a total of 297.
It was another big winning margin for Litchfield - this time 38 strokes - with her closest rival being rising Bathurst star Casey Thompson (335).
"I didn't expect to win this year so it's a nice feeling," Litchfield said.
"In the first couple of rounds the conditions were pretty easy. The only issue was the greens had been cored about a week and a half before the event, but I was really happy with those rounds.
"Last Saturday and Sunday had moments where it was drizzling and that made things more difficult. Sunday morning was really windy so I was really thrilled with that 74.
"I think that was my best round because it came in far more difficult conditions. I'm not disappointed with any round. There were probably a few too many putts on Saturday but in the grand scheme of things that wasn't an issue.
"Considering my absolute lack of practice before the club championships I'm thrilled."
Thompson played consistent golf across the tournament with her rounds of 80, 83, 86 and 86.
Litchfield said Thompson should be proud of her efforts in the unfriendly weather conditions.
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"If you ask her she'll be really disappointed with herself. I played with her over a couple of days and she didn't play too much beyond her handicap and when she puts it all together one day it's going to be absolutely brilliant," she said.
"I keep joking with her that it's her turn next year and beyond and I honestly look forward to the day where she beats me. She's an absolute little star in the making."
Litchfield has indicated she's keen to defend her title in the upcoming Bathurst Open.
In the B grade battle it was Jan Ross who claimed a big 18-stroke win. Ross shot 379 to finish well clear of Toni Pender (397).
Bathurst women's golf club captain Jane Mitchell said the quality of golf was exceptional in the tough conditions.
"I would like to congratulate all players who participated in the championships. Four rounds of stroke is a great test of physical and mental strength. Just completing the four rounds is an achievement," she said.
"I also want to congratulate the winners - we witnessed some terrific golf. It is great to be part of an event that is fiercely competitive as well as filled with fun and friendship."