Urgent: Gold Coast WPGA Championship Cancelled As Cyclone Alfred Threatens Region
The Australian WPGA Championship has been cancelled due to Cyclone Alfred, a Category 2 storm threatening Queensland's Gold Coast with extreme winds, heavy rainfall, and flooding.
The $350,000 tournament was scheduled for March 6-9 at Sanctuary Cove Golf and Country Club. The decision prioritizes the safety of players, staff, fans, and stakeholders as the cyclone approaches southeast Queensland and northern New South Wales, with landfall expected Friday.
Female golfer swinging driver
The cancellation affects approximately 80 players from the LET (Ladies European Tour) who are now seeking practice facilities for next week's Australian Women's Classic in New South Wales. The PGA of Australia has responded by arranging access to 10 clubs with PGA professionals in New South Wales to accommodate the displaced players.
English pro Meghan MacLaren detailed her experience, having to drive 12 hours away from the affected area to continue preparation for next week's event. Flying was not a viable option due to logistical complications and costs.
PGA of Australia CEO Gavin Kirkman emphasized their commitment to supporting visiting golf professionals, stating: "We wanted to ensure the players, especially internationals, felt safe during what is set to be a challenging, uncertain period and that while in Australia they are considered part of our PGA and WPGA family."
The tournament was meant to feature notable players including Grace Kim, the former Australian Women's Amateur champion and six-time professional winner.