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Hot Kyriacou climbing EPGA leaderboard

3 minute read

Young Australian golf star Stephanie Kyriacou is just three behind the leader midway through the inaugural Scandinavian Mixed tournament in Gothenburg.

STEPHANIE KYRIACOU.
STEPHANIE KYRIACOU. Picture: Atsushi Tomura/Getty Images for TOYOTA Junior Golf World Cup

Stephanie Kyriacou is steadily climbing up the leaderboard at the Scandinavian Mixed with the young Australian poised to strike midway through the inaugural tournament.

Hosted by Annika Sorenstam and Henrik Stenson, the event is a first on the European Tour as it features 78 men and 78 women competing on the same course for one million euros and one trophy.

Kyriacou's brilliant second-round 66 on Friday catapulted her to joint-fifth, just three behind Swedish leader Caroline Hedwall (13 under).

The 20-year-old's six-under round was only bettered by Hedwall (64) and second-placed Joost Luiten (65), who is one shot behind.

Like her opening round, Kyriacou attacked the fourth, fifth, sixth and ninth holes where she made birdies.

She also birdied the 10th and 16th, in a blemish-free round that has her perfectly placed to contend.

"There are a couple of short holes which makes it good and when you get those birdies it boosts your confidence," said Kyriacou.

"I have put myself in a good position heading into the weekend."

Despite her tender age, the Sydneysider knows how to compete.

Kyriacou first rose to prominence when she obliterated an international field while still a teenager to win the Australian Ladies Classic in Bonville by eight shots.

"I find it easier to chase than to have the lead," she said. "Being in contention is good, but the forecast doesn't look great, so it is still anyone's game."

Hedwall is the player to catch, but she did enjoy some good fortune on the course.

"I was a bit lucky out there today. I made two eagles and made a bunker shot - it was very enjoyable," she said.

"Hopefully, I get to play with Joost (Luiten) again, I really enjoyed playing with him the last couple of days.

England's Steven Brown and South African Darren Fichardt are a shot behind Luiten, while Kyriacou is bunched with Slovenian teenager Pia Babnik, Finland's Kalle Samooja and Spain's Pep Angles on 10 under.

Australians Scott Hend is tied for 15th at eight under while Jason Scrivener is two shots further back.

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