The 2025 Welsh Open and Welsh Classic at Pontins Sand Bay marked a milestone in Olivia Heaton’s young career. At just 16, Olivia stepped into her first world-ranking events, testing herself across six separate categories: Girls Singles, Youth Singles, Women’s Singles (Open & Classic), Women’s Pairs, and Mixed Pairs.

Her busy schedule and willingness to compete at every level demonstrated both ambition and resilience — and she produced several standout performances along the way. Full Results

Welsh Open Girls – Semi-Finalist

Olivia’s debut in a WDF world-ranking event could not have gone much better.

• She advanced from her group stage, finishing second behind eventual champion Paige Pauling.

• In the semi-final, she faced Yazmine Ruck-Havard. Despite losing 3–0, Olivia averaged 57.65 under the pressure of a televised knockout stage, while Ruck-Havard averaged 62.63.

• This run marked her as one of the rising names in the youth game, showing composure beyond her years.

Welsh Classic Youth

Olivia also contested the Youth Singles in the Welsh Classic.

• In the Last 32, she met Mitchell Lawrie, producing a strong 64.43 average before being edged out.

• While the result didn’t go her way, the performance highlighted her natural scoring ability and ability to compete with the best young players on the circuit.

Welsh Classic Women’s Singles

Olivia stepped into the adult division with confidence.

• In the Last 64, she swept aside Nicola Biddick with a 4–0 win, averaging 51.38.

• In the Last 32, she faced Welsh international and eventual finalist Rhian O’Sullivan. Though she lost 0–4, Olivia raised her average to 66.17, showing clear progress and a determination to raise her game against elite opposition.

Welsh Open Women’s Singles

In the Open event, Olivia’s draw pitted her against the experienced Paula Jacklin.

• Their Last 64 encounter was competitive, with Olivia taking two legs before bowing out 2–4.

• She averaged 53.02 to Jacklin’s 57.81, showing again that she could hold her own against seasoned professionals.

Welsh Open Women’s Pairs – with Julie Sabin

Partnering with Julie Sabin, Olivia gained valuable experience in the women’s pairs competition.

• Although results did not carry them into the later stages, the tournament provided her with the opportunity to work on doubles play, teamwork, and tactical finishing in a competitive setting.

Welsh Open Mixed Pairs – with Luke Sabin

In the mixed pairs, Olivia teamed up with Luke Sabin.

• Facing a strong and varied field, the pair enjoyed competitive matches but did not advance to the final rounds.

• The event nonetheless gave Olivia exposure to mixed-gender strategic play — experience that will serve her well in future tournaments.