Golf: Davies strives for hat-trick

LAURA DAVIES is one of nine former champions in the strongest field assembled for the British Women's Open, which begins over the Duke's course at Woburn today. Britain's world No 1, winner of the title in 1986, is chasing a hat-trick of victories following her successes in the Irish and Scottish Opens. Davies, who has won six tournaments this year, said: 'I am playing well and will be trying my best, but winning three on the trot is so hard and I think it is asking a little too much.'

The pounds 52,500 first prize would lift Davies to the top of the European Order of Merit and strengthen her lead in the LPGA money list in the United States, where she leads with earnings of almost pounds 400,000.

Nine members of Europe's 1992 Solheim Cup-winning side are in the field of 144 along with a small, but strong, American contingent that includes Dottie Mochrie, Elaine Crosby and Val Skinner, who have all won at home this year.

There is an added incentive for two other Americans, Betsy King and Amy Alcott. A victory for either would earn them a place in the LPGA's Hall of Fame.

King, winner of the British Open in 1985, missed the last four holes of yesterday's pro-am when she tripped over a barrier on the 15th tee. She came off the course for precautionery treatment to her right knee before declaring herself fit to play.

CARD OF THE COURSE

Hole Yards Par Hole Yards Par

1st 349 4 10th 466 5

2nd 134 3 11th 175 3

3rd 355 4 12th 398 4

4th 465 5 13th 474 5

5th 158 3 14th 401 4

6th 436 5 15th 390 4

7th 390 4 16th 374 4

8th 156 3 17th 310 4

9th 364 4 18th 462 5

Out: 2,807 35 In: 3,450 38

Total: 6,257 73