NATIONAL NEWS - As soon as she banked a tie for 22nd in the Meijer LPGA Classic in Michigan on Sunday, South Africa’s top export Lee-Anne Pace took the first flight to Scotland to join compatriots Nicole Garcia, Ashleigh Simon and Paula Reto in this week’s Ricoh British Women’s Open at the Trump Turnberry Resort.

“The Ricoh Womens British Open is one of my favourite tournaments of the season and I’m stoked to get started,” said Pace. “I’ve been looking forward to this week all year.” Pace was able to fit in two practice rounds at the Ailsa Course and declared herself ready to challenge in the season’s fourth Major.

“My preparation has been very good,” the double Investec Cup for Ladies champion said. “I’ve had a couple of solid weeks and I’m happy with where my game is at. The Open is always fun because you are able to play a wide variety of shots and you get to use your imagination.

“The only variable you can’t control is the weather and it’s usually a factor. You just have to make the most with what you get when it’s your time on the first tee.” Reto will lead the South African posse into action in Thursday’s first round.