Barbados’ golfing rising star, Emily Odwin, is in full swing.
Between her university studies in Sports Management at Southern Methodist University (SMU) in Dallas, Texas, and a demanding competitive schedule, Sporting Barbados caught up with the 21-year-old to talk about her journey so far.

Why golf, Emily?
I went with my dad to Royal Westmoreland when I was eight and started hitting balls while he was practising. It just came naturally. When we got home, he told my mum, “I signed Emily up for golf lessons.” At first, she was concerned since I was already booked up with other sports every day of the week, but my dad and I convinced her to let me give it a try—and here we are now.

Being a young female golfer in Barbados – did you struggle?
No, I was always made to feel welcome. Golfers like Simon Proverbs, Gerardo Thomas and Bobby Edghill did nothing but support and encourage me. Denny Foster coached, mentored and guided me for ten years, and I was lucky to be surrounded by people who constantly pushed me to improve. Most importantly, my parents always supported me.
Where I am now in the USA, the sport feels less male-dominated because I’m surrounded by my team at SMU and my coaches, Lauren Mason and Carly Ludwig. They do an incredible amount for us and give us the best chance to be competitive at every tournament.
Back home, it’s different. There are fewer girls and fewer women in coaching, largely because golf has a higher barrier to entry. With football, all you need is a ball. Track and field or swimming are also fairly simple to get into. With golf, you need clubs, lessons and access to a course, which makes it harder for many kids to get started.

What’s your favourite course in Barbados?
Royal Westmoreland has a special place in my heart. The club and its members have always been so good to me, and the course design is incredible. Apes Hill, Sandy Lane and Barbados Golf Club have also been very kind and supportive over the years, and I’m extremely grateful to them.

You are the first Barbadian to qualify for the US Open – tell us about that journey.
I qualified by travelling to San Francisco and playing 36 holes at the Olympic Club. I had a great caddie, Matt Kennedy, and shot three-under, which was enough to co-medal and earn my spot. After that, everything happened so fast. It was an amazing experience and a lot of fun. It was also great for my career because it showed me where I am now and what I need to work on to reach the next level.

Where are you now in your career?
I recently wrapped up a strong fall season with my team at SMU and earned Epson Tour status for the upcoming season through the LPGA Q-Series in Venice, Florida. Next up is the Women’s Latin American Championship in Mexico. Between school, travel and tournaments, I don’t get a lot of sleep!

Who is your golfing hero?
Jordan Spieth and Lydia Ko. I’ve been a fan of both for years and really admire their short games—especially their putting—and the way they approach the game.

What would you tell someone considering a golfing vacation in Barbados?
By all means, go for it. Barbados may be a small island, so we don’t have a large number of courses, but there’s plenty of variety. You can enjoy challenging rounds at Royal Westmoreland, Apes Hill, Sandy Lane, Barbados Golf Club and Rockley Golf Club. You would have a great time golfing in Barbados.

What advice would you give a young girl in Barbados who dreams of a career in golf?
Don’t get caught up in what’s happening around you. Stay focused, work hard and don’t compare yourself to anyone else. It’s your journey, and it will happen in its own time and in its own way.

Is there anything you miss about Barbados?
The beach! There are no beaches near me in Dallas. I really miss being just 15 minutes from the water and the sand. Life over here is busy, and I miss being able to escape, recharge and reset.

We look forward to watching Emily’s journey continue and wish her every success. Barbados is incredibly proud of you.
You go, girl!