Cranbourne Golf Club in Melbourne's south-eastern outskirts is gearing up to host the Australian Amateur Championship. The event has been moved from its traditional early January time slot, to the end of March (29 – April 1) to reduce the risk of player travel being impacted by border restrictions. “National championships are an extremely important part of our high performance pathway and in inspiring our next generation” said Golf Australia’s General Manager of Events & Operations, Therese Magdulski. “We are thrilled to be playing the event at Cranbourne. The club has a proud history of hosting state events, and to be able to showcase the course for our premier amateur championship will be very special.” The men’s and women’s championships each comprise 72-holes of stroke play, with a cut after 36 holes. An initial field of 156 players will start the event, with the opportunity for an equal split of 78 men and 78 women. The equal field representation confirms Golf Australia’s commitment to providing gender equality at its events. “Golf Australia looks forward to showcasing Australia’s best amateur golfers,” Magdulski said. “Unfortunately, it is unlikely we’ll have a huge crop of international participants for the 2022 event, however 156 of Australia’s best at the one venue is sure to showcase our next crop of talent”. Cranbourne Golf Club is recognised as one of Victoria’s outstanding golf courses, located approximately 40 kilometres southeast of the Melbourne CBD. Its layout was designed by architect Sam Berriman in the 1950’s following his respected work at Huntingdale golf course. Five times British Open Champion Peter Thomson described Berriman as “an architect of rare talent" and his Cranbourne design as "a classic with this great course being worthy of any major tournament”. Cranbourne Golf Club General Manager Andrew Kenny said the club is excited to host the event in 2022. “We are excited to showcase our course and facilities through the hosting of our first national championship, along with supporting the growth of the City of Casey," he said. The championships date back to 1894, and with both winners receiving an exemption into their respective Australian Opens, an additional drawcard for Australia’s pinnacle amateur tournament. Noticeable names on the honour rolls include Lydia Ko, Minjee Lee, Min Ji Park (a 10-time winner on the Korean Tour), Cameron Smith, Cameron Davis, Greg Chalmers and Michael Campbell. Entries are set to open today, with a handicap limit of 0.0 for men and 3.4 for women. Click here for further information.