Canice Screene Triumphs at AIG Irish Women’s Amateur Close Championship in Memorable Win
On August 6, 2024, the prestigious fairways of Roscommon Golf Club witnessed a thrilling conclusion to the AIG Irish Women’s Amateur Close Championship, where 23-year-old Canice Screene from Croham Hurst emerged victorious. Screene clinched a compelling 2&1 victory over Emma O’Driscoll of Ballybunion in the final round, marking a significant milestone in her burgeoning golfing career.
Screene, an English golfer with deep Irish heritage, brought her A-game to Roscommon. Her journey to the championship title was punctuated by stellar performances across both stroke play and match play formats. In the stroke play rounds, Screene posted scores of 70 and 69, finishing with a total of seven under par (-7), securing her a third-place position heading into the match play phase.
The match play saw Screene exhibit remarkable poise and competitive edge. She swiftly defeated Molly O’Hara of Clandeboye with a 3&2 score in the first round. In the quarterfinals, Screene faced Emma Fleming, the reigning Bridgestone Order of Merit champion, and claimed a decisive 4&3 win, setting up a tense semifinal against Olivia Costello from Roscommon. Demonstrating resilience and tactical excellence, Screene clawed back from a disadvantage to win holes 16, 17, and 18, securing her spot in the final.
In the championship match, Screene’s determination was evident early on, as she took a 2up lead. O’Driscoll fought back, winning the fifth and 11th holes, but Screene maintained her composure and clinched victory on the 17th hole to secure the 2&1 triumph. This victory is a testament to her persistence and evolving skillset over several years of competition.
Reflecting on her victory, an emotional Screene remarked, “It’s been a long time coming, this one is very very special. This is my four or fifth year playing and I played the girls. This is really it for me.” Her long wait for a title has been marked by consistent effort and steady improvement, and this win stands as a pivotal point in her career.
“I had been playing well all week and I knew I was going to have to play well in this last match so to do it was really special,” Screene added. The championship win underscores her ability to perform under pressure and achieve her goals, bolstering her confidence for future competitions.
Screene’s victory not only highlights her individual prowess but also has significant implications for her career trajectory. “I definitely came in here to win, make the match play and then see how it goes. This has proven to me that I can win and I have been waiting very long to get over the finish line. I always said if I can win once I can win again,” she shared, reflecting on the personal and professional breakthrough this championship represents.
Looking ahead, Screene is eager to sustain her momentum, expressing hope and determination: “Hopefully I can just keep the momentum going, so we will see.” This triumph at the AIG Irish Women’s Amateur Close Championship is more than just a win; it signifies a new chapter for Screene, one filled with promise and potential as she continues to rise in the world of amateur golf.
