American dream win for Rachel

Rachel Connor: strong win

GOLF: RACHEL Connor is celebrating a breakthrough first win on American soil.

The Royton golfer clinched a two-shot victory at the Mission Inn Resort El Campeon in Orlando — the latest event in the Suncoast Ladies Series in Florida.

The 20-year-old finished on two-over-par after carding scores of 72 and 76.

High winds forced tournament officials to abandon yesterday’s third and final round, leaving Connor to take the title and pick up a handsome cheque for $1,700.

Dad Brian said: “I spoke to Rachel last night and she was naturally elated.

“She beat a good field and we’re very proud of her.

“Wind speeds were up to 100mph, so there was no chance of playing the final round. In fact, she was holed up in her hotel room and didn’t fancy driving the 80 miles back home.”

Connor is using the Suncoast Ladies Series as preparation for her second season on the Duramed Futures Tour.

And the former Our Lady’s pupil can take great heart from her recent performances, which also include a fourth-place finish. She has pocketed $2,550 altogether to sit fourth in the rankings.

Connor, a top amateur before turning professional, spent eight weeks on the sidelines after being involved in a car crash in November last year.

She was struck by two vehicles and, although initial scans appeared clear, it later transpired she had broken a rib.

Connor is based at the David Leadbetter IMG Academy in Bradenton, where she receives expert tuition from a clutch of top coaches.