The fourth edition of the Women’s Amateur Latin America (WALA), organized by The R&A and the ANNIKA Foundation, is approaching, and excitement is building to see the top 60 amateur players from South America, Central America, Mexico, and the Caribbean at this event, which has become a favorite on the region’s women’s amateur golf calendar. From November 21 to 24, the championship will be held at the iconic Lima Golf Club (Peru), celebrating its 100th anniversary and adding a historic and special dimension to the competition.
Among the participants is the defending champion, Argentina’s Ela Anacona, who made the cut at the AIG Women’s Open at St Andrews this past August. The tournament will also feature young talents like 15-year-old Venezuelan María Mercedes Tablante and experienced players such as María Olivero, the 50-year-old Argentine golfer who led the first two rounds last year and finished in third place.
Since its inception, WALA has gained prominence, establishing itself as a key platform for the best amateur golfers in Latin America, especially with the top prize granting invitations to three Majors: The Chevron Championship, The Amundi Evian Championship, and the AIG Women’s Open. The tournament not only provides an opportunity to showcase the region’s immense talent but also to gain international visibility. “It’s a great satisfaction for us to see that WALA has established itself as one of the premium events for women in the region in just three years. We are very pleased with the position it holds in the world of high-level amateur competition,” said Mark Lawrie, Regional Managing Director for The R&A in Latin America and the Caribbean.
One of the most anticipated moments of the week will be a visit from Annika Sörenstam, a true golf legend. The Swedish champion, regarded as one of the greatest golfers of all time, will be in Lima during WALA week and will host her traditional golf clinic—a highly anticipated event for the young stars of the sport, who see her as a model of excellence. “I want to meet the players, answer their questions, and spend quality time with them. I’m really looking forward to seeing everyone there during my clinic on Saturday, November 23, after the third round of the championship. It’s one of my favorite parts of the week, where I can share my stories and insights about the game,” said Sörenstam.
Sörenstam’s presence in Peru not only adds prestige to the tournament but also provides a unique opportunity for the players to receive advice from an iconic figure in the sport. Annika, a winner of 10 Majors with over 90 titles in her illustrious career and a member of the Golf Hall of Fame, is a source of inspiration for golfers and is admired for the values she upholds both on and off the golf course. Throughout her career, she has promoted principles like discipline, dedication, humility, integrity, and teamwork, which are essential not only for success in sports but also in life. “It’s been incredible to see this tournament grow into what it is today. Our partnership with The R&A has been fundamental in helping us support talented female golfers worldwide, especially in Latin America. I am thrilled that we can bring this great tournament to the Lima Golf Club in Peru and celebrate its 100th anniversary. It will be a special week for everyone,” said the former world No. 1.
The Lima Golf Club, one of the most prestigious courses in Latin America, will provide a challenging and high-level setting. The fact that it celebrates its centenary this year makes the 2024 edition of WALA even more symbolic. This club, with a rich history in Peruvian golf, has hosted numerous international tournaments and remains a pillar in promoting the sport in the region.
With the support of The R&A and the ANNIKA Foundation, WALA continues to promote the development of women’s golf in Latin America, and the 2024 edition will undoubtedly mark another step forward for the future stars of golf.
For more information, visit the championship website: walagolf.com, and follow WALA’s Twitter and Instagram accounts.