Woods niece to play open

The niece of 14-time men’s major champion Tiger Woods will compete in Barwon Heads’ Oates Vic Open next month.
Cheyenne Woods’ would play her first Vic Open for a share of $650,000 in prizemoney, organisers announced.
They said the open’s “unique appeal” and a co-sanctioning agreement between the Ladies European Tour and the ALPG Tour would deliver “one of the strongest women’s fields seen on Australian shores in 2018”.
“I’ve heard quite a bit about the Oates Vic Open from girls I know that have played and I’ve heard so many good things,” said Woods.
“Last year I tuned into the live stream of the playoff between Sandra (Gal) and Mel (Reid) and I could just tell it’s a great event.
“I made sure to put it on my schedule and this year I’m so glad I’m able to play.”
The 2018 open would be the first time 27-year-old Woods had played a professional event with alternating men’s and women’s groups, she said.
“It’s something that has definitely stood out in the past when people have talked about it and how well that combination works.
“It’s a really interesting aspect to the event and I’m looking forward to playing alongside the men’s tour.”
Woods will chase her second crown on Australian soil after trumping current Australian number one Minjee Lee at a 2014 RACV Ladies Masters.
After time away from the game, Woods will be one of a number of big names taking on defending English champs and Solheim Cup stars Mel Reid (2017) and Georgia Hall (2016) around 13th Beach.
“I had the longest break I’ve had in I don’t know how many years! It was nice to spend some time at home, rest and enjoy being with family before getting back into practising,” Woods said.
“I’ve been working with my coach here in Phoenix on a few swing tweaks that I think will help with consistency and a bit of distance.
“I’m planning out my schedule now so I don’t find myself too exhausted throughout the year and I’m always able to bring my A-game.”