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The Ladies European Tour Officially Founded 1981

Early discussions, led by Beverley Lewis, which led to the formation of the LET happened in a “little hut” behind West Sussex Golf Club, where 8 women came together to . The LET was founded at the end of 1978 and officially began with 12 tournaments in 1979, with the first events taking place at a different location, Tyrells Wood in Surrey.
  • Location of early discussions: The crucial early meetings for the formation of the tour took place in a hut behind the West Sussex Golf Club, where a group of aspiring professional female golfers discussed turning pro and creating their own tour.
  • Official formation and sponsorship: The tour was officially founded at the end of 1978 with Carlsberg as a key sponsor.
  • The first season: The first season of the tour took place in 1979, featuring 12 tournaments with a first prize of about £250.
  • First tournament location: The very first tournament of the season was held at Tyrells Wood in Surrey.

Founded by 14 players led by Beverley Lewis:

  • Sue Bamford
  • Maxine Burton
  • Pam Chugg
  • Jane Denman
  • Jane Forrest (née Panter)
  • Denise Hastings
  • Christine Langford
  • Beverly Lewis (deceased)
  • Jenny Lucas (née Lee Smith)
  • Maureen Madill
  • Vanessa Marvin
  • Cathy Panton-Lewis
  • Vivian Saunders
  • Alison Sheard

Celebrating the Founders – in their own words

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