Studte led from start to finish to pip defending champion Michelle Johnston and add to her 2006 Thacker Cup win.

She got home by a shot with 333 for the 72 holes after carrying a two-shot lead into the final two rounds.

Johnston was three back heading into Tuesday’s third round but carded an 82 to Studte’s 84 to close within one with a round to play.

The two played in the same group yesterday but said they had no idea how they stood. 

“We didn’t know the scores until we added them up at the end,” Johnston said.

It was up and down.

Studte had a good front nine but fell apart a bit on the second nine.

That was where she had her “disastrous” holes.

In contrast, Johnston did better on the back nine.

But not enough to get past Studte, with both firing 85.

It was the first time Studte has contested the event since her 2006 victory.

Kids and other commitments have meant she hasn’t had much time on the fairways.

“I’ve played a bit but not very often,” she said.

“It was lovely to win it.” 

As the daughter of long-time Tamworth club professional Terry Hayes, the Tamworth course was almost like a second home to her growing up.

Yesterday’s round was her worst for the tournament and followed rounds of 83, 81 and 84.

“It was a bit scary, a bit up and down, but it was just good to get out and have a game with the girls,” she said.