As players prepare to get underway with the first round of the 2026 Australian Women’s Classic at Magenta Shores on Thursday, there was a notable face on the putting green ahead of the tournament pro-am Wednesday.
A product of nearby Shelly Beach Golf Club, three-time major champion Jan Stephenson was rolling putts and preparing for a hit at the Ross Watson-designed layout alongside rising talent Hannah Reeves.
Stephenson’s appearance was her second in a number of days during a four-week swing of LET and WPGA co-sanctioned events after the World Golf Hall of Famer made the journey to Wollongong on Sunday to present her eponymous trophy to Agatha Laisne at the Ford Women’s NSW Open.
The 74-year-old is planning to be back this weekend with family in tow, and is thrilled with the opportunities on offer through the Golf NSW fortnight of events.
“It was a long way because there’s a lot of traffic nowadays,” Stephenson joked Wednesday of her drive from the Central Coast to Wollongong, with each a drive of more than 90 minutes either side of Sydney.
“When I was back playing, there wasn’t that much traffic, but it’s so lovely to see all the new Australians playing, and I always like to try to be behind them and see how they’re doing. And I’m excited today, I’m playing in the Pro-Am with Hannah, so I’m very excited.”
Suggesting she would only offer Reeves, who started her pro career with three straight victories, advice if asked, Stephenson was thrilled to discuss the chance back-to-back weeks of top-class golf offers the next generation of Australian players.
“Playing and competing, it’s two different things. Playing for fun and trying to get ready for a tournament to be actually able to compete with European players is huge for them,” she said.
“We only had a couple (of tournaments), and once I left and went to America, it kind of fizzled out a little bit. I’m glad to see it’s back and I think it’s so good for our players and especially for the young players. I’m going to bring my grandniece out on the weekend, so I’m excited.”
Stephenson’s excitement extends beyond her home Tour, with the latest LPGA Tour win of Hannah Green last week in Singapore another proving point that Australian women’s golf has never been stronger.
“Before it was just either me and then it was Karrie (Webb). But to see multiple… We’ve got three top, top players between Grace (Kim) and Hannah and Minjee (Lee),” Stephenson said.
“I’m really proud of what Australian golf has done.”
Preparing to be on site to see a winner crowned this week near her Australian home base, Stephenson is hopeful one of her countrywomen can take out the title at Magenta Shores.
“That would be fantastic. I’d love to see it. And the girls are playing well, so it’s all about how you’re playing at the moment, too.”
LIVE: Magenta Shores Golf & Country Club
7 – 8 March – 12 PM – 5 PM
