KENT golfer Karen Stupples teed off in the first round of the Women's British Open at St Andrews on Thursday knowing that she faces a tough task to maintain her proud recent record in the event.

The Deal professional has finished the leading British player in the last four Opens, including her memorable victory in the 2004 Championship at Sunningdale.

She said: "I exceeded my expectations at Chart Hills, even though I knew my game was in pretty good shape.

"I would love to finish the leading British player again this week. I feel I am hitting the ball well enough to contend, but it will all boil down to whether I am fully match fit yet."