Ashburton Mayor Liz McMillan welcomed 60 of New Zealand’s best amateur women golfers yesterday, ahead of the inter-provincial teams tournament being hosted by the Ashburton Golf Club this week.

The players represent 12 provinces and are accompanied by teams of supporters, all staying in Ashburton.

Mayor Liz said it was great to see the spirit of competition, and friendship, combine for the week in her district.

“We know the players have worked hard to gain representative honours to be here and the Brandon course is beautiful, but testing, so there’ll be some fierce battles.

“It’s great to see the Ashburton club hosting such a major tournament and their greenkeepers and volunteers organisers have done a sterling job.”

Club president Paddy Bradford said it was an important event on the national golf calendar and the players were representing provinces from Northland to Southland.

“These women are among the best golfers in the country and we’re looking forward to seeing them play. This tournament hosted a very young Lydia Ko a decade or so ago, so there’ll be stars of the future here too.”

Mr Bradford said members of the public were welcome to visit the course during the tournament and watch the match play. Competition starts today (Tuesday) and runs until Friday.

The Aorangi team includes local golfer Jennifer Shepherd and the team is managed by Ashburton’s Mary-Lou Watson.

Mayor Liz said the tournament was important for golf, but also a win for the district.

“This event brings 150 people to town, and they stay in our hotels and motels, eat in our restaurants and shop locally. I know our people will make them feel welcome and it’s also a great opportunity for our visitors to explore further, maybe visit the art gallery and museum or walk in the Ashburton Domain, because Mid Canterbury has a lot to offer.”