Newz Forum: GOLF: Women could play in the Open Championship

It is looking increasingly likely that the Open will change from a men only event. Chairman Peter Dawson welcomes the change to lift the ban on women. Although things have yet to be confirmed, it looks like it will be a long way off. The women will have to gain world rankings from qualifing and invatation tournaments.


Source: Sportinglife.com

The Open Championship could change from being a men-only event next year. In a sign of changing times Peter Dawson, chief executive of the Royal and Ancient Club which organises the 145-year-old championship, has said he favours the removal of the ban on women players.

This year's entry form stipulates that entries are only allowed from "any male professional or from a male amateur golfer whose playing handicap does not exceed scratch".

But from 2006 it may be the likes of women's world number one Annika Sorenstam, teenage sensation Michelle Wie and Britain's Laura Davies are able to file entries.

Maybe in about five years we shall see the women rubbing shoulders with the likes of Tiger Woods, Ernie Els ect in a major tournament.