Irish Eyes Are Smiling!

The third time’s the charm for Leona Maguire.

After two consecutive top-5 finishes on the Symetra Tour, the Irish native and KPMG Brand Ambassador defeated Pajaree Anannarukarn on the first hole of a sudden death playoff to win the 2019 Windsor Golf Classic. The win is Maguire’s first as a professional, and news of her victory has spread quickly back home in Ireland, with notable figures such as Niall Horan, Padraig Harrington and Paul McGinley all offering their congratulations via social media.

“I felt a win was coming as my game has felt good, however it’s so tough as the standard on the Symetra Tour is so high,” Maguire said. “I am delighted to get my first professional win.”

Maguire entered the clubhouse with a one-shot lead after shooting a blistering final round 65, only to see Anannarukarn birdie the 18^th hole to force a playoff. On the first playoff hole, Maguire took advantage of an errant tee shot from Anannarukarn by making birdie on the Par-5 18^th to secure the victory.

Maguire put herself in position to win with an outstanding performance in her final round, highlighted by a five-under (31) on the front nine which featured a run of four consecutive birdies on holes 4-7. Maguire played consistent golf on the back nine, adding two more birdies on 12 and 13 while finishing the round bogey-free at -12.

The win vaults Maguire into first place in the Volvik Race for the Card standings, which will see its top 10 players earn LPGA Tour status for the 2020 season. Congratulations to Leona on a milestone achievement and best of luck for the remainder of the season!