A BICESTER schoolgirl is hoping to return to the international stage after enjoying her first taste of the action.

Lucie Feaver, from Ardley, finished 46th out of 51 competitors at the IMG Academy Junior World Championships.

Competing in the 7-8 Girls Division against some of the best young golfers on the planet, she improved across the three-round competition at the Pine Glen Sycuan Resort, San Diego.

Going into the event, the eight-year-old’s best round was 98, but she beat that in the first round with 92 and went one stroke better in the second.

The Fringford Church of England Primary School pupil saved her best until last, though, carding a third round 85, while she was in the top 25 for her back nine of 38.

Her father Ian said the key to that round was a five-minute FaceTime video call with coach Deana Rushworth, of Witney Lakes Resort.

He said: “Lucie had been driving right off the tee and we got Deana on FaceTime in the driving range just before the final round and straight away she picked out one thing – where her left hand was positioned.”

Feaver started playing golf aged five and booked her place in San Diego after coming second in the IMG Junior World Qualifier at Hoebridge, Woking, earlier this year.

The event includes tournaments for under six to 15-17-year-olds and 14-time major winner Tiger Woods is among the past champions.

Feaver practices once a week, but found herself competing against girls who play every day and rely on tutoring for their education.

Ian, who is now on the hunt for local clubs who can offer their support in developing his daughter’s golf, added: “Lucie absolutely loved it.

“She is very competitive so she did get a bit frustrated, she went to win but that would not have been possible when you are playing against players who play every day like machines.

“She wants to go back there and to give her the best opportunity she needs to play more golf.”

He continued: “It was a really good experience and we realised Lucie has got some ability and is capable of going further.”