Leona up to 10th at Woburn
Leona Maguire speaks to TV after her third round 68
Leona Maguire has yet to announce publicly when she will turn professional but she looks ready to make the money at any time after a third round 68 left her tied for an impressive 10th place with a round to play in the Women's British Open at Woburn.
At seven under par, the world amateur No 2 might be nine stokes behind Thailand's Ariya Jutanugarn, who leads by two from Mirim Lee on 16 under par, but she looks so at ease and accomplished that Irish golf can look forward to plenty of big days.
"It was a great day out there today," Leona said." I enjoyed every minute of it. Played some really nice golf out there. Gave myself a lot of chances.. I'm going to try to make as many birdies as I can tomorrow, do what I did today and see what happens.
"It's so much fun. I've had a blast this week so far. Really good day out there today. I suppose it's just a bonus being here this kind of week being able to play against the best golfers in the world. And to play alongside them is something that's special that I don't get to do often, but it gives me a taste of what I want to do."
On the Marquess Course, she added: "It's a great golf course. It's pretty tree-lined, so definitely hitting the ball straight off the tee is a premium. It really rewards good golf. You hit a lot of good irons and you have a lot of chances. That's what I've been trying to do all week."
The Co Cavan star is looking forward to representing Ireland in the Olympics, where she will have twin sister Lisa act as her caddie, as she does this week.
"Yeah, I can't wait," she said." It's going to be a dream come true for me to go out there and represent Ireland on that stage.
"I've watched the Olympics enough times. Usually sit up in front of the TV watching it every four years, so it will be great to be a part of it this year. We're staying in the village, get to soak up the whole atmosphere and cheer on the rest of the Irish athletes out there."
As for her caddie, she added: "She's been great. She's kept me calm. She's kept me going all week. She's been great on the bag. She's doing everything that a top professional caddie does, so I couldn't ask any more."
