Galitsky thrilled to earn AIGWO start

Eila Galitsky cannot wait to play in this year’s AIG Women’s Open after booking her spot at Walton Heath with a commanding victory in the Women’s Amateur Asia-Pacific (WAAP) championship.

Galitsky, a 16-year-old with dual citizenship of Thailand and Canada, produced a phenomenal performance at Singapore Island Country Club as she finished five shots clear of nearest rival Minsol Kim.

As a result of her success in the WAAP, Galitsky can now look forward to starts in three majors – the AIG Women’s Open, the Amundi Evian Championship and the Chevron Championship – as well as the Women’s Amateur Championship and the Augusta National Women’s Amateur.

“Honestly, I am just trying to enjoy every single moment of it. What an opportunity I’ve got. I just need to try to savour every moment,” said Galitsky.

“I am looking forward to playing the AIG Women’s Open, as I feel like it is ‘the’ championship for women’s golf. Honestly, any major would be great, but I just really like that one.”

When she tees it up at Walton Heath in August, Galitsky will be seeking to claim the Smyth Salver awarded to the leading amateur in the Championship.

A number of recent winners of the prize have gone on to achieve significant success in the professional ranks, including AIG Women’s Open Champions Anna Nordqvist and Georgia Hall.

Other winners of the Smyth Salver include Michelle Wie, Mel Reid, Danielle Kang, Lydia Ko, Leona Maguire and Atthaya Thitikul.

The WAAP is developed by The R&A and Asia-Pacific Golf Confederation (APGC) to unearth emerging talent and provide a route for Asia's elite female amateurs to the international stage.

The 2023 AIG Women's Open takes place from 10-13 August at Walton Heath, with tickets available here.