Claire Shin returns to the theatre that is The Athena for a second straight year with a maiden professional win under her belt.

Based out of the St Michael’s Golf Club in Sydney, Claire went within a whisker of winning the Women’s NSW Open as a 17-year-old amateur in 2023.

She ultimately lost in a playoff to New Zealand’s Momoka Kobori and turned professional later that year.

That decision was vindicated when Claire finished tied for 14th at the ISPS HANDA Australian Open at Victoria Golf Club and she has been a consistent performer in WPGA Tour of Australasia events since.

A maiden win came late last year when Claire claimed the Women’s NSW Open Regional Qualifier at Wagga Wagga which she followed up with an 11th-place finish at the Australian Open and tie for eighth at this year’s Vic Open.

Advanced to the knockout phase of The Athena last year before losing to Elmay Viking by one stroke in their three-hole Round 1 match.

Before she eyes off a deeper run this year, get to know Claire Shin.

Most played artist on Spotify in 2024
Billie Eilish

Favourite Instagram follow
Jin Young Ko

Go-to comfort TV show/movie
One Piece

WPGA player you want with you on a road trip
Michelle Bang (she just turned pro this year and is my long-time friend)

Skills challenge you feel most confident
Putting and bunker shots

Celebrity you’d like to play nine with
Ryan Reynolds or Tiger Woods

Go-to take-out order
BBQ Porky Fries

Favourite golf memory
My first professional win at Wagga Wagga.

What is your most used emoji?
🌝

What are you most scared of?
I'm scared of nothing.

What's one thing people wouldn't know about you?
That I write left-handed.

If you could have an unlimited supply of one thing, what would it be?
Love ❤

Ultimate bucket-list travel destination?
Japan

If I win The Athena the first thing I’ll buy is…
I’ve got nothing of interest to buy yet.