Szilvia with Hickory Clubs
My name is Dr. Szilvia Karpati. I was born in Budapest, Hungary, and moved to Germany after completing my dental studies. As a German citizen, I have been living in northern Italy and running my own dental clinic.
Approach Shot
In my youth, I practiced various sports such as fencing and tennis, but at the age of 28, I discovered the game of golf—and it has since become one of the great passions of my life. I proudly represent Senior Ladies team of the Hungarian national team at international tournaments, including the (European Golf Association’s (EGA) Team Championship and the Marisa Sgaravatti Trophy.
Teeing Off
In 2022, I was introduced to hickory golf when, by chance, during an afternoon round at our home club in Lugano, Paolo Quirici happened to be in my group. As someone deeply interested in history and art, I was instantly fascinated. Paolo kindly guided me into this wonderful, nostalgic world. Since then, I have participated successfully in the Swiss, Italian, German, and Austrian Hickory Championships.
Szilvia with Paolo Quirici
A particularly memorable experience was the World Hickory Championship in Scotland last year, when I won the 1st Gross Ladies Prize.
WHO Chairman Mr. Steedman and Lady Champion Szilvia Karpati
The World Hickory Open 2024 was a 3-day stroke play tournament. It took place on October 8–10 in Inverness up in the highlands of Scotland.
On the first day, we played in mixed groups on the breathtakingly beautiful links course of Brora Golf Club, under extremely strong wind conditions. I was fortunate to enjoy the company of three very skilled players, two of whom were scratch golfers with handicaps around zero.
Playing in Northern Scotland
On the second day, we faced not only the relentless wind on the Old Moray Golf Course, but even a sudden hailstorm.
On the final day, at the picturesque Fortrose and Rosemarkie course on the peninsula, we were blessed with a touch of sunshine. Here we were grouped according to categories, and I played alongside a German and a Japanese lady.
James Braid, One of the Great Triumvirates Who Redesigned F&R GC
I was very happy that, despite difficulties on the last day, I was able to maintain my lead and win the tournament.
A Touch of Sunshine
I thoroughly enjoyed the camaraderie among like-minded players, the spirit of fair play, and the shared appreciation for tradition.
Last year’s World Hickory Open was also enriched by convivial evening gatherings, including a traditional Scottish night and the elegant gala prize-giving ceremony.
This year I will play the Austrian and the Swedish hickory Open. Now, I’m very much looking forward to meeting new hickory friends beyond the familiar borders of Europe and I am excited to embark on my first journey to China with great curiosity and enthusiasm.
