Celebrating Claire Shin | The Winner of Athena Golf 2025

The Athena 2025 at Peninsula Kingswood was nothing short of spectacular, and Claire Shin’s victory was the perfect ending to an electrifying tournament. She made history as the first player to win both the Challenge and Playoff days, proving her skill and composure under pressure. In a nail-biting final against Steph Bunque, Claire held her nerve through a playoff and a dramatic putt-off to claim the title, taking home $30,000 and a $15,000 Drummond Golf scholarship.

Claire’s humility and camaraderie shone as she reflected on the tournament, celebrating not just her win but the fierce competition and shared moments with her fellow players. The event was filled with unforgettable highlights, from Amy Chu’s near hole-in-one to the intense putt-off between Kono Matsumoto and Sarah Yamaki Branch.

With this victory, Claire now sets her sights on the 2025 Australian WPGA Championship at Sanctuary Cove. Capturing these moments through my lens was an incredible experience—the raw emotions, the highs and lows, and the grit that makes golf so compelling. I hope these stories inspire you, whether you’re a golfer or simply love the art of storytelling.

Stay tuned for more moments from The Athena 2025.

x Karen

Captured on the #NikonZ6III @NikonAustralia #Nikkor70200 #Nikkor2470

#WPGtour #PGAofAustralia #theAthena #EnjoyYourGolf #GolfGlamGrit #WomenGolfers #PeninsulaKingswood #GolfDoneDifferent

Grit, Camaraderie & Passion | The Athena Golf Through My Nikon Lens 2025

Two weekends ago, I found myself back at The Athena, surrounded by the energy of elite women golfers, the thrill of competition, and the quiet, unscripted moments that make the game so special. Golf and photography, two of my greatest passions, came together once again, and I couldn’t have asked for a better setting to capture the essence of the tournament, and I brought my hubby in for the ride. He was my second shooter and photo editor for the weekend.

There were so many incredible moments throughout the weekend, too many to count. From the intense focus before a critical shot to the lighthearted camaraderie between players, every moment told a story.

But this isn’t just about golf.

This series is for anyone who appreciates grit, resilience, and passion, whether you’re a golfer, an athlete, a creative, or someone who simply loves witnessing people chase their dreams. It’s about the camaraderie that makes competition more than just winning. It’s about the mental game, the quiet moments of self reflection, and the way sport mirrors life itself. And most importantly, it’s about the beauty in the unscripted moments, the laughter, the fist pumps, the deep breaths before the winning putt.

I hope you find inspiration in these photos, whether you’re out on the green or simply appreciating the art of storytelling through sport.

Thank you team PGA Australia and WPGA Tour for having me!

x Karen

Captured on the #NikonZ6III @NikonAustralia #Nikkor70200 #Nikkor2470 #Sponsored

#EnjoyYourGolf #GolfGlamGrit #WomenGolfers #PeninsulaKingswood

 

This is Australian Golf Open from a Fashion Filmmaker’s POV

What a week at Kingston Heath GC for the ISPS Handa Aus Open! Between chasing the pros with my Nikon Z6III and #nikkor100400mm lens 🎥 and trying not to fangirl too hard, Melbourne’s scorching heat had its own plans.

Yeah.. I actually fainted while capturing the action on the hottest day, but nothing could hold me down for long. Big thanks to the Chief Marshall and First Aid team for getting me back on my feet. Golf never fails to challenge me, on the course and off 😅

Massive congrats to this year’s #ISPNHANDA champions 🏆🏆🏆
@jiyai_shin
@ryggsjohnston
#simonseungminlee

Also featuring:
@ashbuhaigolf
@hannahgreen
@minjee27
@claire_bear_shin
@cassie_porter_
@stephaniebunque
@cameronsmithgolf
@herbznspices_
@marcleish
@joaco_niemann
@jasperstubbs_
@elvissmylie
@curtisluck_

Huge thanks to @golfaustralia @ausopen and @nikonaustralia for making this unforgettable week happen!

Until next time, happy golfing! x

Living the Golfer’s paradise: St. Andrews Rusacks Hotel

Rusacks Hotel in St. Andrews is a quaint yet quirky gem for the die-hard fashion and golf enthusiast. With its blend of timeless heritage and chic modern style, this hotel offers more than just a luxurious stay—it’s where fashion meets the fairway. From its stylish interiors to its nods to golf’s iconic history, Rusacks delivers a unique experience, perfect for those who appreciate the finer details both on and off the course. A must-stay haven you definitely won’t want to miss.

Supported by #NikonAustralia. Images shot on the Nikon Z8 #NikonCreator

 

 

The Home of Golf: St Andrews Old & New Course

Being at the birthplace of golf was a dream come true, especially for someone who’s only been playing for two years! The moment we arrived in St Andrews, it felt like we were stepping into a living, breathing piece of golf history. Even though we missed out on the ballot for the Old Course, just walking those legendary fairways was an experience in itself. Playing the New Course was an incredible consolation, offering its own challenges and breath-taking views that left us in awe. The history and atmosphere of St Andrews are truly something special, and we’re still soaking it all in.

St Andrews has a way of mesmerising you with its scenic beauty and rich history. The dramatic coastal views, with the North Sea meeting rugged cliffs, create a backdrop that feels straight out of a dream. Walking through the town, you can almost hear the echoes of the past, from the ancient ruins of St Andrews Cathedral to the hallowed grounds of the Old Course. It’s a place where every moment feels significant, where you’re not just playing golf—you’re part of something much bigger.

Huge thanks to Steve Baron from CGE Golf for the unforgettable trip of a lifetime.

👉🏼 Scroll down to see my favourite moments from the #StAndrews Old & New Course.

#golfphotography shot on the incredible #Nikonz8 supported by @nikonaustralia #nikoncreator #mynikonlife