Walton Heath Golf Club has announced that registration for the Walton Heath Trophy is now open, as the historic venue prepares to welcome another strong field for one of the standout amateur events of the year, which will be contested between July 21-23.
Played over the Surrey club’s world renowned Old and New Courses, the Walton Heath Trophy – formerly known as the South of England Open Amateur Championship until 2019 – is an elite amateur stroke play event which is World Amateur Golf Ranking approved.
The tournament sees players compete for the Michael Lunt Salver (men) and Jill Thornhill Rose (women). It is unique with competitors of both playing side by side across 72 holes – a rare format with organisers continuing their commitment to equality in competitive amateur golf and reinforcing the Walton Heath Trophy’s growing reputation as a progressive championship that blends tradition with a modern, inclusive approach.
The first 36 holes of the Walton Heath Trophy will be played over the New and Old Courses, with competitors playing one round on each layout on Tuesday, July 21 and Wednesday, July 22. The lowest 40 scores and ties in the men’s field, and the lowest 20 scores and ties in the women’s field, will advance after 36 holes. These qualifiers will then compete over the final 36 holes on Thursday, July 23, with the morning round played on the New Course and the afternoon round on the Old Course.
The Walton Heath Trophy is held over the club’s highly rated Old and New courses (pic by Kevin Murray)
Last year, saw Lewy Hayward from Marlborough lift the Michael Lunt Salver with scores of 66, 69, 68 and 71, giving the young England golfer a four-round total of 14-under-par. The Jill Thornhill Rose went to England’s Charlotte Brook, who posted rounds of 72, 70, 71 and 74 to record a 9-under-par total.
The Walton Heath Trophy offers a strong opportunity to attract US collegiate players returning home for the summer seeking WAGR points and top-class tournament conditions. Although the tournament clashes with the under-18 Carris Trophy, it presents an opportunity for those unsuccessful in the Carris ballot to join the field at Walton Heath.
Nick Moran, Managing Director at Walton Heath Golf Club, said: “We are very proud to be driving forward with our women’s event following its launch in 2024. Jill Thornhill is one of the most respected names in UK amateur golf and we are so excited for the next chapter as the club looks to continue its support of the women’s game. The Walton Heath Trophy goes from strength to strength and is one of the highlights of the season. We are looking forward to welcoming everyone for what promises to be another engrossing tournament.”
Walton Heath is also notable for its hosting of US Open Final Qualifying, and has been a regular venue for players seeking an opportunity to play in America’s National Championship. This year’s Final Qualifying will take place on May 18, with spectators welcome to attend.
To enter the 2026 Michael Lunt Salver, click here. To enter the Jill Thornhill Rose, click here.
Entry fees are £140 (men) and £110 (women).
For more information, visit www.waltonheath.com
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