MacGarvie Rules at St Andrews

University of Stirling golfer Hazel MacGarvie claimed the biggest victory of her career this weekend as she won the St Rule Trophy at St Andrews.

The Sports Business Management student started the final round one shot clear at the top of the leaderboard but, after carding seven birdies around the Old Course, pulled away from the field to post a four-shot success.

The St Rule victory marks a significant step in the Troon native’s burgeoning career as, having finished second in last year’s tournament, she has shown clear progression en-route to winning her first ever international amateur event.

Commenting on the victory, MacGarvie said: “It feels amazing. Especially as I’ve been knocking at the door recently and haven’t been able to finish it off, so it’s extra special to actually manage to win it.

“I knew I was playing well coming into the tournament and just thought I needed to stay calm in the last round and play the way I did the previous day and thankfully it went my way.

“As soon as you know you’re coming to St Andrews, you know the course will be in a great condition and it’s just amazing to be here, and be able to win – and to get my photo on the Swilken Bridge is just a really good feeling.”

The University’s High Performance Golf Coach, Dean Robertson, added: “All at the University of Stirling couldn’t be more delighted and proud of Hazel’s fine victory.”

“She is an incredibly talented student athlete and is working extremely hard to develop her skills. This is hugely significant as this is her first big international amateur victory and comes as no surprise off the back of many fine performances in recent months, where she has been knocking at the winner’s door.”

Demonstrating the strength of the University’s golf programme, MacGarvie’s Stirling teammate, Chloe Goadby, also enjoyed a successful weekend, finishing five shots back for a share of third place and the pair will now turn their attention to the Women’s Amateur Championship at Royal County Down later this month.