Ana Pelaez Takes Third at Andalucía Costa Del Sol Open De Espana

Málaga, Spain – South Carolina senior Ana Pelaez made history on Sunday finishing third, the highest finish for an amateur in tournament history at the Andalucía Costa Del Sol Open De Espana at the Real Club de Golf Guadalmina. The Spanish Open is the final event for the 2020 season on the Ladies European Tour.

“I would have liked to win, but today was amazing,” Pelaez said after Sunday’s final round. “I played well and put myself to the test playing with Azahara Munoz. There were nerves that I did not know I’d have and today I had to play through and learn how to control that. I don’t think I could have asked for much more today.”

Pelaez showed the spark Gamecock fans know her for after a rough opening round. The senior bounced back after a 3-over 75 on Thursday to post a 1-under 71 on Friday, but she really shined over the final two rounds. 

The Málaga, Spain native sank five birdies on Saturday to notch a 4-under 68 and propel herself into a tie for seventh place heading into the final round. On Sunday Pelaez kept that fire burning, tallying six birdies on her way to a 5-under 67 and a third-place finish. 

“A big step and well-deserved performance by Ana,” South Carolina women’s golf Head Coach Kalen Anderson said of Pelaez. “She should gain much confidence in the preparation she has made for her strong return to Gamecock golf the spring, as well her upcoming professional career debut this summer. I am proud of Ana and her hard work.”

Pelaez is set to rejoin the Gamecocks for the spring season after pandemic related travel restrictions kept her away for the fall season. The senior is coming off her second All-American season in 2019-20.