Walton Heath Golf Club has announced that registration is now open for the Walton Heath Trophy, as the historic course prepares to welcome another strong field for one of the premier junior events of the year, to be contested between July 21-23.
Played around the Surrey club’s Old and New Courses, the Walton Heath Trophy – formerly known as the South of England Open Amateur Championship until 2019 – is the premier amateur golf event recognized by the World Amateur Golf Ranking.
The tournament sees players competing against Michael Lunt Salver (men) and Jill Thornhill Rose (women). It’s unique with its two rivals playing back-to-back over 72 holes – a rare format with the organizers continuing their commitment to equality in beginner golf and cementing the Walton Heath Trophy’s growing reputation as an ongoing competition that combines tradition with a modern, inclusive approach.
The first 36 holes of the Walton Heath Trophy will be played on the new and old courses, with competitors playing one round on each course on Tuesday, July 21 and Wednesday, July 22. The lowest score of 40 and a tie in the men’s field, and the lowest score of 20 and a tie in the women’s field, will advance after 36 holes. The qualifiers will then be contested over the final 36 holes on Thursday, July 23, with the morning round played on the New Course and the afternoon round on the Old Course.
Last year, Marlborough’s Lewy Hayward saw off Michael Lunt Salver with scores of 66, 69, 68 and 71, giving the young English golfer a four-round total of 14-under-par. The Jill Thornhill Rose went to England’s Charlotte Brook, who posted rounds of 72, 70, 71 and 74 to record a total of 9.
The Walton Heath Trophy offers a strong opportunity to attract US collegiate players who return home for the summer in search of WAGR points and high-quality tournament conditions. Although the competition conflicts with the Under 18 Carris Trophy, it gives those who did not make it through the Carris voting an opportunity to join the field at Walton Heath.
Nick Moran, Managing Director at Walton Heath Golf Club, said: “We are proud to be taking our women’s event forward following its launch in 2024. Jill Thornhill is one of the most respected names in UK student golf and we are very excited about the next chapter as the club looks to continue to support the women’s game. We welcome everyone to what promises to be another exciting tournament.”
Walton Heath is also notable for hosting the US Open Final Qualifying, and has been a regular destination for players looking for a chance to play in America’s National Championship. This year’s Final Qualifying will be held on May 18, and spectators are welcome to attend.
Entering the 2026 Michael Lunt Salver, Click here. To enter Jill Thornhill Rose, Click here.
Entry fee is £140 (men) and £110 (women).
For more information, visit www.waltonheath.com
