GINA Brown, the fifth winner of the JJB Sports Manchester Evening News Women's Championship to progress to county status in recent years, is uncertain if she can defend her title this summer.

"I'm desperate to have another go but I've such a hectic schedule I could have difficulty fitting it in," she admitted.

Gina is a victim of her own success as far as our competition is concerned.

As with her Mere clubmate Charlotte Wild, who won the previous year, victory has helped to lift her game to a higher level.

She has followed Charlotte into the Cheshire Girls' squad and, apart from training commitments, she hopes to play in as many national tournaments as possible to gain England recognition.

Gina and Charlotte will have spent four months honing their swings in Florida with county team-mate Kate Whitemore, from Sandiway, by the time they return to Manchester at the end of March.

The five handicapper, who is determined to turn professional, added: "I'll make up my mind when I get home."

Hopwood's Rachel Connor, Chorley's Caroline Atherton who prevailed twice, and Kamilla Lawton who is an assistant professional at Prestbury, all went on to play for their counties.

But, statistics prove that the way is clear for anyone to win our title for, while youngsters have had such a big say in matters over the last 10 years, there have been several "mature" champions as well.

The finals on Friday September 7 will once again be played at the Marriott Worsley Park. The semi-finals will be played on Friday, August 31, at Swinton Park.

HOW TO ENTER

ENTRIES are limited to 128 and, in the event of the number being exceeded a ballot by handicap will be held. Entry fee is é5. Closing date is March 20 and, in anticipation of a big field, you are advised to enter as soon as possible.

Send your name, address, contact number, golf club and handicap to: David Birtill, 3 Stable Mews, Withnell Fold, Chorley, Lancs PR6 8AR.

Cheques/PO made payable to Greater Manchester Newspapers Ltd.

The competition is open to all women golfers of any age, who possess a club handicap, maximum 28 on the date of entry. The competition will be played to three-quarters the difference.

The home player will be responsible for contacting her opponent to arrange the match. If green fees are not waived by the host club, the cost will be divided between the two players.

THE PRIZES

*WINNER: é200 voucher to spend at any JJB Golf Store.
*RUNNER-UP: é150 voucher to spend at any JJB Golf Store.
*THIRD: é100 voucher to spend at any JJB Golf Store.
*FOURTH: é50 voucher to spend at any JJB Golf Store.

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