Barbadian golfer Emily Odwin has etched her name into the annals of sports history by becoming the first player from Barbados—male or female—to qualify for the U.S. Women’s Open. The 21-year-old amateur secured her spot in the prestigious tournament by co-medaling at the final qualifier held at The Olympic Club in San Francisco, posting impressive rounds of 68 and 71 for a 3-under-par total of 139.
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Odwin’s journey to this milestone is remarkable, considering the limited golfing infrastructure in Barbados, which boasts only six courses. Despite these challenges, she honed her skills at Royal Westmoreland Golf Club and the Barbados Golf Club, where she began training under coach Denny Foster at the age of 11. Her dedication and talent led her to the University of Texas and later Southern Methodist University (SMU), where she has continued to excel in collegiate golf.
At SMU, Odwin has been recognized for her powerful drives, often outdistancing her peers by 20 to 30 yards off the tee. Her coach and caddie for the U.S. Women’s Open, Carly Ludwig, highlighted Odwin’s athleticism and shot-making abilities, noting her proficiency with a 3-iron—a rarity in modern women’s golf.
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Beyond her athletic prowess, Odwin carries the pride of her nation with her. She plans to wear an embroidered Barbados flag on her polo shirt during the tournament at Erin Hills in Wisconsin, which runs from May 29 to June 1. Her participation not only marks a personal achievement but also serves as an inspiration for aspiring golfers in Barbados and the Caribbean region.
“I just want to show kids back home that golf is a real possibility,” Odwin told Golf Digest. “You never know where the game might take you.”
As she prepares to compete on one of golf’s grandest stages, Odwin’s story stands as a testament to determination, talent, and the support of a community that believed in her potential.
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