Lamson Shoots for the Top
By Sue Jones

South Royalton High School graduate Ellen Lamson tied for fourth in the Vermont Amateur Women's Tournament this year.

Ellen Lamson, daughter of Frank and Maria Lamson of South Royalton, tied for fourth place at the Vermont State Women’s Amateur Golf Championship on August 9 in Enosburg Falls. Lamson, who graduated from South Royalton High School in 2004, will graduate from Holy Cross this year with a Bachelor of Science degree in Sociology and Pre-Business with a concentration in Asian Studies.

Lamson has been playing golf with her father since she was 10 years old and playing competitively since she was 12 years old. Her fourth place finish this year has been one of her best; two years ago she finished in 10^th place.

"I know I can play at that level and feel more confident at my game," Lamson says. She typically shoots in the 80s, with a handicap of 5.8. Her first hole-in-one was achieved in 2003 at a tournament in Massachusetts. In addition to her hole-in-one ball, she also has a collection of balls from her first eagle and birdie in a trophy cabinet that she shares with her brother and sister.

Lamson works hard all summer, training with Corey Mansfield at Fore-U Golf Center in West Lebanon, N.H., and also being a supervisor at Fore-U.

The Vermont State Women’s Amateur Golf Championship might be the last amateur championship that Lamson may be eligible to participate in, since she will take her playing ability test next spring. Her goal is to become a Class A PGA professional, which will provide her the chance to be a head pro at a golf course or to be a teaching pro. She is looking forward to the playing opportunities that will be available to her as a member of the PGA.

Lamson is a member at Montague in Randolph and enjoys playing in the member-member tournament with her father. She acknowledges how Montague is providing more opportunities for women to play.

"Golf can be started at any age," Lamson said. "You’re never too old to go out and try it. You should take the opportunity to play, even if it is to hit some balls. Give it a shot."

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