IT'S a measure of the big strides Kerry Smith is taking on the international stage that she was disappointed with her 29th place finish in the recent European Championships.

The England international from the Waterlooville Club has had a tremendous season, finishing runner-up in the English Matchplay Championship and seventh in the British Strokeplay Championship.

Halfway through the European event in the Czech Republic, Kerry was lying tenth after three rounds, with impressive scores of 73 76 and 75 tucked under her belt. But she lost the thread in her fourth and final round, carding an 80 to tumble down the leader-board.

"I played well for three rounds and was hoping for a really strong finish to make up some ground on the leaders," said Kerry, "so I was disappointed with my last round. I just didn't get it together."

Kerry's England playing partner Janet Lamb from West Wilts was tucked just behind her at the halfway stage but fell back to finish 40th after shooting 80 in her third round.

Both girls have been called up again to play for England in the Home Internationals at Royal Durnoc in Scotland from September 22-24.

Kerry's efforts this year have earned her some winter training in Florida with the England Elite squad in January.

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