Laura Davies (1963- )

Born in Coventry, England, Laura Davies is unquestionably Britain's most outstanding female golfer of the modern era. Her power, style and attitude re-define what it is to be a professional golfer. Her place in golf's hall of fame is guaranteed.

Davies' talent is natural and her great power comes with little practice. She is renowned for turning up to play tournaments, not bothering to play a practice round and subsequently winning. Her long game, which is particularly strong, coupled with a readiness to take risks makes her a difficult opponent. However despite her success she has remained approachable and down to earth.

She is the only professional, male or female, to have won on five different tours in the same year. During the 1990s she has consistenly been high on, if not on top of, the the money list. Indeed she is the first lady golfer to have topped $1m in prize money in a single year. In recognition of her contribution to golf, she was awarded an M.B.E. in 1988 .

Davies' has also been an effective team player and has been a member of several Curtis and Solheim Cup squads. Some insight into her personality can be gleamed from the fact that in 1996 she had gambled more than $500,000 over 11 years since turning professional. She also enjoys fast cars and owns a rather nice red Ferrari. Most interesting of all, she has a soccer field in the grounds of her home in the UK and has actually played in the USA's ladies professional league.

The book on Laura Davies is still open. She is still competing and we can expect alot more from this great talent.