Donegan Slides Down Leaderboard at NSW Open Despite Strong Start

Australia’s Hannah Reeves now leads the Ford Women’s NSW Open by one stroke after a 66, as Ireland’s Áine Donegan struggled in the third round, carding a three-over-par 74 and falling to eight-under overall.

From Leader to Contender

Donegan, 23, had been at the top of the leaderboard after a stunning second-round 63 at Wollongong Golf Club, putting her at 11-under-par. This performance came in her professional debut on the Ladies European Tour (LET). She earned her LET card last December by successfully qualifying at Lalla Aicha Q-school in Morocco.

Saturday’s round proved more difficult, with five bogeys offsetting birdies at the first and last holes. Despite the setback, Donegan remains within striking distance heading into Sunday’s final round.

It was obviously a dream day, Donegan said after her second round.

Reeves Takes the Lead

Hannah Reeves’ impressive 66 propelled her to 12-under-par, one shot ahead of fellow Australian Kelsey Bennett. Reeves hit six birdies during her round and nearly holed out for an eagle on the final hole.

Thailand’s April Angurasaranee is tied for third, two shots behind Reeves, after a remarkable round including a hole-in-one at the par-three 12th.

Foster Remains in Contention

Also representing Ireland, Dubliner Anna Foster is four-under tied for 29th, after a one-under 70.

Current Leaderboard (Selected Players)

• -12 H Reeves (Aus)
• -11 K Bennett (Aus)
• -10 A Laisne (Fra), S Oh (Kor), A Angurasaranee
• -9 C Heath (Eng)
• -8 A Donegan (Ire)

The final round promises to be a thrilling contest as Donegan and Foster look to build a move up the leaderboard.