MAGAZINE - August 24-30 PINNACLE COUNTRY CLUB - Walmart NW Arkansas Championship
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TOURNAMENT
MAGAZINE
PINNACLE COUNTRY CLUB
August 24-30 Rogers Arkansas
welcome
from Walmart
welcome
On behalf of Walmart Associates around the world, Walmart is especially proud to be a part of an event
it’s my pleasure to welcome you to the Walmart NW that gives back to important charitable causes.
Arkansas Championship presented by P&G. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Walmart
has supported global relief efforts – from needed
Walmart is committed to helping make NW Arkansas donations to food banks and supplies for healthcare
a great place to live and work, and we’re honored to workers. As part of #NWAChampionship Week, we
host this special event. While the week will look quite will continue those recovery efforts here locally by
different as we navigate the impact of the COVID-19 supporting many charities based right here in our
pandemic, I encourage you to tune-in and watch community.
the world-class golfers of the LPGA Tour across the
event’s three days of broadcast coverage. Thank you to all of the LPGA players, tournament
sponsors, volunteers and community partners that
Walmart is delighted to support an event that is help make the Walmart NW Arkansas Championship
focused on empowering others – from the talented presented by P&G a wonderful experience every Donna Morris
female athletes of the LPGA Tour to business leaders year. We look forward to welcoming back our many Executive Vice
in the community. Earlier this year, we announced tournament fans for a grand celebration in 2021 for President, Chief
an increase in the tournament purse, showcasing the #NWAChampionship’s 15th anniversary. People Officer
our commitment to providing equal opportunities
for women. In June we also hosted the Walmart Donna Morris
Women’s Empowerment Summit presented by
Kimberly-Clark, which virtually brought together over
700 women from the community alongside dynamic
retail leaders and entrepreneurs.
TOURNAMENT MAGAZINE 1
welcome
from P&G
welcome
On behalf of Procter & Gamble, welcome to the $17,000. We are proud of how our community rallied
Walmart NW Arkansas Championship presented by together to support our healthcare workers right
P&G. here in NW Arkansas.
I’m so excited that #NWAChampionship Week Don’t forget to tune into the tournament’s Golf
is finally here! While the past few months have Channel coverage beginning on Friday, August 28
been a challenging time for all of us due to the and continuing through Sunday, August 30 featuring
COVID-19 pandemic, I’m really proud of how the some of the most talented female golfers. Join your
people of Northwest Arkansas have stepped up as friends and family to watch these inspiring women as
a force for good to serve our communities. This is they compete at Pinnacle Country Club.
one of my favorite weeks of the year because this
event celebrates the incredible spirit of Northwest A huge thank you to Walmart, our tournament
Arkansas. That spirit will continue for this year’s NW volunteers and our many community supporters that
Arkansas Championship, as we partner with Walmart help make the Walmart NW Arkansas Championship
once again to offer a world-class sporting event. presented by P&G a success every year. We look
forward to celebrating the tournament’s 15th
This summer, P&G was especially proud to support anniversary in 2021.
a new community initiative, Miles for Mercy. In Mindy Sherwood
response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the 5k @ the Mindy Sherwood President, Procter
LPGA race transformed into a new virtual event. & Gamble Walmart
Miles for Mercy, a charitable program benefiting Global Customer
the Mercy Health Foundation and celebrating local Team
healthcare heroes, took place virtually during the
original LPGA week of June 15-20. In partnership
with the tournament, P&G donated $1 for every mile
walked or run during the week to the Mercy Health
Foundation. By the end of the week, participants
had logged over 9,500 miles, for a total donation of
TOURNAMENT MAGAZINE 3
welcome
from the Mayor of Rogers
welcome
to Rogers, Arkansas! Atalanta Park or take a stroll or run on over 70
miles of biking and pedestrian trails. There is a
On behalf of the City of Rogers, I am excited to place for everyone to enjoy in Rogers!
welcome you to our home and to the Walmart NW
Arkansas Championship presented by P&G. The We’re growing rapidly in Rogers. Approximately 30
citizens of Rogers are excited to once again host people a day decide to make Northwest Arkansas
this LPGA Tour event, and we want to ensure that their new home. If you think you’ve seen everything
your stay in Rogers is a wonderful experience. in a previous visit, our city has plenty more to
explore. Of course, with rapid growth, comes
The City of Rogers sincerely thanks Walmart, heavy construction. Please be patient with us as we
Procter & Gamble, and Pinnacle Country Club for work to bring a $240 million bond issue to life with
their commitment to making this a successful event new infrastructure, parks, trails, and updates to our
each year. I would also like to extend a special public safety. We are confident that if you venture
thanks to the Hudson family for their commitment out and experience Rogers, this won’t be your last
to excellence and investment in Pinnacle. Many visit to the City Where Possible Lives.
Northwest Arkansas corporations, businesses, civic
clubs, and individual volunteers have contributed If we can be of any assistance during your stay, Greg Hines
countless resources and hundreds of hours of their please do not hesitate to ask. We are truly here to City of Rogers
time to make this one of the finest stops on the serve you. The phone number for City Hall is (479) Mayor
tour, and their efforts are greatly appreciated. 621-1117 and to contact Visit Rogers please call
(479) 636-1240. Keep up with us on Facebook,
Welcome to Rogers, the City Where Possible Instagram, and Twitter @Rogers1881.
Lives! Whether you are a returning guest or a
first-time visitor, I encourage you to get out and Enjoy your stay in Rogers!
explore all that Northwest Arkansas has to offer.
Rogers has the unique ability to offer the amenities Sincerely,
of a major metropolis, while still maintaining its Mayor Greg Hines
historic, small-town roots. Delve into the shopping,
entertainment, and fine dining in the Pinnacle Hills
Promenade. Savor the local fares in the Historic
Downtown District. Relax at our 236-acre Lake
TOURNAMENT MAGAZINE 5
welcome
from the LPGA Commissioner
welcome
On behalf of the LPGA Tour and all its members, and lift us to new heights. Without you, we simply
WELCOME to the 2020 Walmart NW Arkansas would not have a Tour and our fans in more than 160
Championship presented by P&G. countries would not be able to watch these incredible
athletes compete each week.
As we emerge from these months of uncertainty and
restart our 2020 LPGA Tour season, we continue to In our sport, the golf clap is a universal sign of respect
celebrate the growth of women’s professional golf and and appreciation. Now, it’s our opportunity to say
expand what our 13 Founders started over 70 thank you to those who continually display that
years ago. We will continue to #DriveOn and are Founders spirit and an absolute unwillingness to back
inspired by their determination to move forward. down. To everyone on the front lines, to the everyday
heroes in our midst, and to our sponsors and fans
Between the LPGA, Symetra and Ladies European who have stood with us during this difficult time —
Tours, there are players from more than 50 countries #WeClapForeYou!
showcased in LPGA events across the world. The talent Michael Whan
and poise these athletes possess is something to LPGA Fan and
behold. As gifted as they are inside the ropes, each Sincerely, Commissioner
player may be an even better person outside of Mike Whan
them, with an equally unique story to tell.
On behalf of our players and our staff, I want to thank
the fans, sponsors and partners, including
Walmart, P&G, Pinnacle Country Club and the City of
Rogers, who continued to support women’s golf
TOURNAMENT MAGAZINE 7
TABLE OF CONTENTS
on the
GOLF COURSE
10 Schedule of Events
13 Quick Facts
19 Player Profiles
35 66 Course Map
69 Hole by Hole Guide
around the
53 63 COMMUNITY
15 Special Events
35 Event Feature: Maria Fassi Spotlight
43 Razorback Feature:
Road to the #NWAChampionship
49 Charity Feature: Miles for Mercy
53 Partner Profile: Mayor Greg Hines
49 behind the
SCENES
39 LPGA Feature: Players & Their Pets
57 2019 Retrospective
61 Volunteer Spotlight
63 LPGA Feature: Moms on Tour
79 Which LPGA Player Are You?
39 10
TOURNAMENT MAGAZINE 9SCHEDULE
of events
MONDAY,
AUGUST
BITE NW Arkansas
24 WEDNESDAY,
AUGUST
OFFICIAL PRO-AM,
26 THURSDAY,
AUGUST
OFFICIAL PRO-AM,
27
Restaurant Week DAY ONE DAY TWO
Begins 7:00 A.M. – 9:00 A.M. 7:00 A.M. – 9:00 A.M.
Official Pro-Am Morning
25
Official Pro-Am Morning
Wave Wave
TUESDAY, 12:00 P.M. – 2:10 P.M. 12:00 P.M. – 2:10 P.M.
AUGUST Official Pro-Am Afternoon Official Pro-Am Afternoon
Wave Wave
PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE
ROUNDS
10 TOURNAMENT MAGAZINESCHEDULE OF EVENTS
FRIDAY,
AUGUST
FIRST ROUND
28 SATURDAY,
AUGUST
SECOND ROUND
29 SUNDAY,
AUGUST
FINAL ROUND
30
TOURNAMENT PLAY TOURNAMENT PLAY TOURNAMENT PLAY
7:00 P.M. – 9:00 P.M. 4:00 P.M. – 6:00 P.M. 4:00 P.M. – 6:00 P.M.
Golf Channel Coverage Golf Channel Live Coverage Golf Channel Live Coverage
18th Green Ceremony
Immediately Following Play
TOURNAMENT MAGAZINE 11QUICK FACTS
past
CHAMPIONS
2007
2008
2009
2010
STACY LEWIS SEON HWA LEE JIYAI SHIN YANI TSENG
2011
2012
2013
2014
YANI TSENG AI MIYAZATO INBEE PARK STACY LEWIS
2015
2016
2017
2018
2019
NA YEON CHOI LYDIA KO SO YEON RYU NASA HATAOKA SUNG HYUN PARK
TOURNAMENT
facts past THE BEST OF THE BEST
champion stats
$97
Ì
PURSE
MILLION
$2,300,000
Å in Total Prize Money
FIELD
156 of the world’s top female golfers
110 8 11
Ð
FORMAT Past
Three-day, 54-hole stroke play
Champions
competition with a cut after Saturday’s
of Ranked #1
round to 70 and ties
TOTAL TITLES
8 11
TV COVERAGE
23
FRIDAY:
7 p.m. - 9 p.m. (Tape Delayed)
SATURDAY: of
MAJOR
4 p.m. - 6 p.m. (Live)
SUNDAY:
PAST CHAMPIONS
4 p.m. - 6 p.m. (Live)
ALL TIMES CST
CHAMPIONSHIPS are MAJOR WINNERS
TOURNAMENT MAGAZINE 13SPECIAL EVENTS
THURSDAY, JUNE 18
VIRTUAL EVENT
The annual Walmart Women’s
Empowerment Summit presented by
Kimberly-Clark went virtual on June
18th with over 700 attendees. Focused
on Leveraging Your Unique Journey to
Success, the event helped to empower
female leaders both locally and across the
country. LPGA player Mariah Stackhouse
was a featured speaker, detailing her
journey to success in golf and inspiring
women of all ages and backgrounds to
continue believing in themselves and
chasing their dreams. Other featured
speakers included Kathryn McClay (Sam’s
Club), Cara Brookins (Author), and Christin
Hedgpeth (NBA). Partnering with the
NWA Food Bank, a portion of proceeds
from each ticket was donated to help feed
those in need in Northwest Arkansas.
TOURNAMENT MAGAZINE 15miles
FOR MERCY
PRESENTED BY
JUNE 15-20, 2020
VIRTUAL COMMUNITY CHALLENGE
The 2020 5k @ the LPGA pivoted to
a virtual community challenge, Miles
for Mercy, which took place during the
original LPGA week in June. The charitable
initiative celebrated the resilient spirit of
NW Arkansas by raising money for the
Mercy Health Foundation in support of our
local healthcare heroes. P&G donated $1
for every mile walked or run throughout the
week - with over 1,450 participants logging
9,759 miles, a total of $17,000 was donated
to the Mercy Health Foundation! Friends
and families were encouraged to get
outside and enjoy the beautiful trails that
our region has to offer. Local companies
competed as teams in the Corporate
Challenge for the titles of Fittest Office,
Fastest Office, and Most Spirited Office.
P&G and Community Fit took home the
bragging rights!
16 TOURNAMENT MAGAZINESPECIAL EVENTS
RESTAURANT WEEK
AUGUST 24-30
LOCAL RESTAURANTS
Join us for the first-ever BITE NW
Arkansas Restaurant Week from August
24-30 as a celebration of the local
restaurants throughout our community!
While the pandemic has been especially
hard on the restaurant industry, we are
excited to rally the community around
the businesses that add so much value to
our region. During Restaurant Week, look
for special menu offerings, promotions,
and discounts at participating local
restaurants. We encourage you to
support local and show your favorite
restaurants some love on social media
by using #BITERestaurantWeek. Visit
BITENWA.com to see participating
restaurants and other ways to support
local restaurants!
TOURNAMENT MAGAZINE 17LPGA
player
profiles
The LPGA is the world’s leading
professional golf organization for
women. Founded in 1950 and
headquartered in Dayton Beach, FL,
the association celebrates a diverse
and storied membership representing
more than 30 countries. With a vision
to inspire, empower, educate and
entertain by showcasing the very
best of women’s golf, LPGA Tour
professionals compete across the
globe. Check out the following player
profiles to learn more about some of
the top players competing at this year’s
#NWAChampionship!
18 TOURNAMENT MAGAZINEPLAYER PROFILES
gabyLOPEZ
College: University of Arkansas
Height: 5’6”
Birthday: 11/9/1993
Hometown: Mexico City, Mexico
Resides: Mexico City, Mexico
Rookie Year: 2016
LPGA Tour Victories: 2
Career Earnings: $1.8 Million
@GabyLopezGolf
@GabyLopezGolf
#NWAChampionship Record
Appearances: 7 | Best Finish: T10 | Event Top 10s: 1 | Low Round: 65
beyond
THE GOLF COURSE
FAVORITE VACATION DESTINATION? FAVORITE MEAL?
Paris and Tulum, Mexico Mexican Tacos with guacamole and Sushi all day!!!
FAVORITE THING ABOUT THE HIDDEN TALENT?
#NWACHAMPIONSHIP? Dancing
Feeling the energy of every single Hog Fan out
there, being able to represent the Razorback WHAT DID YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU
community at home is a feeling like no other! WERE GROWING UP?
FOREVER A HOG Be just like Lorena Ochoa
GO-TO KARAOKE SONG? FAVORITE GOLFER TO BE PAIRED WITH?
Livin on a Prayer by Bon Jovi Lorena Ochoa, Azahara Munoz, Carlota Ciganda
or Moriya Jutanugarn
CELEBRITY CRUSH?
Bradley Cooper WHAT DO YOU MISS MOST ABOUT HOME
WHEN YOU ARE TRAVELING?
My Mexican Tacos
TOURNAMENT MAGAZINE 19stacyLEWIS
College: University of Arkansas
Height: 5’5”
Birthday: 2/16/1985
Hometown: The Woodlands, TX
Resides: Houston, TX
Rookie Year: 2009
LPGA Tour Victories:12
Career Earnings: $12.9 Million
@Stacy_Lewis
#NWAChampionship Record
Appearances: 13 | Best Finish: Won (2007 & 2014) | Event Top 10s: 7 | Low Round: 65
beyond
THE GOLF COURSE
TV SHOW YOU’RE CURRENTLY FAVORITE MEAL?
BINGING ON NETFLIX? Cheese burger and sweet potato fries
I am not watching anything right now because I
have a one year old keeping me occupied! HIDDEN TALENT?
I am a talented swimmer!
FAVORITE VACATION DESTINATION?
Beach vacations are my favorite WHAT DID YOU WANT TO DO
GROWING UP?
FAVORITE THING ABOUT THE I always wanted to be a businesswoman
#NWACHAMPIONSHIP?
The fans are always my favorite part of being back FAVORITE GOLFER TO BE PAIRED WITH?
in Arkansas Natalie Gulbis
GO-TO KARAOKE SONG? WHAT DO YOU MISS MOST ABOUT HOME
Any instrumental song so I don’t have to sing! WHEN YOU ARE TRAVELING?
Family
CELEBRITY CRUSH?
Truthfully I don’t have one
20 TOURNAMENT MAGAZINEPLAYER PROFILES
mariaFASSI
College: University of Arkansas
Height: 5’5”
Birthday: March 25, 1998
Hometown: Pachuca, Mexico
Resides: Windermere, FL
Rookie Year: 2019
LPGA Tour Victories: 0
Career Earnings: $146,793
@MariaFassi1
@MariaFassi0
#NWAChampionship Record
Appearances: 3 | Event Top 10s: 0 | Low Round: 69
beyond
THE GOLF COURSE
TV SHOW YOU’RE CURRENTLY FAVORITE MEAL?
BINGING ON NETFLIX? My mom’s homemade pasta
Cable Girls
HIDDEN TALENT?
FAVORITE VACATION DESTINATION? Sleeping anywhere I see fitting
Acapulco (beach in Mexico)
WHAT DID YOU WANT TO DO
FAVORITE THING ABOUT THE GROWING UP?
#NWACHAMPIONSHIP? Professional golfer
The opportunity to come back “home” and
play in front of my people FAVORITE GOLFER TO BE PAIRED
WITH?
GO-TO KARAOKE SONG? Madelene Sagstrom
The Best by Tina Turner
WHAT DO YOU MISS MOST ABOUT
CELEBRITY CRUSH? HOME WHEN YOU ARE TRAVELING?
Cristiano Ronaldo My family
TOURNAMENT MAGAZINE 21PLAYER PROFILES
so yeonRYU
Height: 5’6”
Birthday: 6/29/1990
Hometown: Seoul, South Korea
Resides: Dallas, TX
Rookie Year: 2012
LPGA Tour Victories: 6
Career Earnings: $10.9 Million
@1SoYeonRyu
@1SoYeonRyu
#NWAChampionship Record
Appearances: 8 | Best Finish: Won (2017) | Event Top 10s: 4 | Low Round: 61
beyond
THE GOLF COURSE
TV SHOW YOU’RE CURRENTLY FAVORITE MEAL?
BINGING ON NETFLIX? Pasta
The Crown
HIDDEN TALENT?
FAVORITE VACATION DESTINATION? Cleaning
Jeju Island Korea
FAVORITE GOLFER TO BE PAIRED
FAVORITE THING ABOUT THE WITH?
#NWACHAMPIONSHIP? Rory McIlroy
People
WHAT DO YOU MISS MOST ABOUT
CELEBRITY CRUSH? HOME WHEN YOU ARE TRAVELING?
Jessica Alba My own bed
TOURNAMENT MAGAZINE 2324 TOURNAMENT MAGAZINE
PLAYER PROFILES
lydiaKO
Height: 5’5”
Birthday: 4/24/1997
Hometown: Auckland, New Zealand
Resides: Orlando, FL
Rookie Year: 2014
LPGA Tour Victories: 15
Career Earnings: $10.1 Million
@Lydsko
#NWAChampionship Record
Appearances: 7 | Best Finish: Won (2016) | Event Top 10s: 4 | Low Round: 62
beyond
THE GOLF COURSE
TV SHOW YOU’RE CURRENTLY BINGING HIDDEN TALENT?
ON NETFLIX? Balance a water bottle on top of my head….is
Crash Landing on You this a talent though?!
FAVORITE VACATION DESTINATION? WHAT DID YOU WANT TO DO
Queenstown GROWING UP?
A LPGA Tour player
FAVORITE THING ABOUT THE
#NWACHAMPIONSHIP? FAVORITE GOLFER TO BE PAIRED WITH?
Playing with the same Pro-Am Group these past Jessica Korda
few years. Hope to be paired together again!
WHAT DO YOU MISS MOST ABOUT
CELEBRITY CRUSH? HOME WHEN YOU ARE TRAVELING?
Tom Hardy Miss my home country NZ scenery and miss my
friends
FAVORITE MEAL?
Mom’s homemade BBQ pork ribs
TOURNAMENT MAGAZINE 25PLAYER PROFILES
morganPRESSEL
Height: 5’5”
Birthday: 5/23/1988
Hometown: Boca Raton, FL
Resides: Boca Raton, FL
Rookie Year: 2006
LPGA Tour Victories: 2
Career Earnings: $8 Million
@mpressel
@mpressel
#NWAChampionship Record
Appearances: 12 | Best Finish: T2 | Event Top 10s: 1 | Low Round: 63
beyond
THE GOLF COURSE
TV SHOW YOU’RE CURRENTLY BINGING FAVORITE MEAL?
ON NETFLIX? Pizza
Anything on Masterclass
HIDDEN TALENT?
FAVORITE VACATION DESTINATION? Propagating succulents
California wine country
WHAT DID YOU WANT TO DO GROWING
FAVORITE THING ABOUT THE UP?
#NWACHAMPIONSHIP? Doctor
The people and the community
FAVORITE GOLFER TO BE PAIRED WITH?
GO-TO KARAOKE SONG? My husband
I Will Survive - Gloria Gaynor
WHAT DO YOU MISS MOST ABOUT HOME
CELEBRITY CRUSH? WHEN YOU ARE TRAVELING?
Hugh Jackman My friends and family (and puppy if she isn’t with
me!)
TOURNAMENT MAGAZINE 27PLAYER PROFILES
sung hyunPARK
College: Hankuk University of
Foreign Studies
Height: 5’6”
Birthday: 9/21/1993
Hometown: Seoul, South Korea
Resides: Orlando, FL
Rookie Year: 2017
LPGA Tour Victories: 7
Career Earnings: $5.3 Million
@XXNDL
#NWAChampionship Record
Appearances: 3 | Best Finish: Won (2019) | Event Top 10s: 1 | Low Round: 63
beyond
THE GOLF COURSE
FAVORITE VACATION WHAT DID YOU WANT TO
DESTINATION? DO
Somewhere warm GROWING UP?
A scientist
FAVORITE THING ABOUT
THE #NWACHAMPIONSHIP? WHAT DO YOU MISS MOST
Having all the different flavors/ ABOUT HOME WHEN YOU
colors of gatorade in the coolers ARE TRAVELING?
Korean food
FAVORITE MEAL?
Dinner
TOURNAMENT MAGAZINE 2930 TOURNAMENT MAGAZINE
PLAYER PROFILES
jin youngKO
College: Sungkyunkwan University
Height: 5’5”
Birthday: 7/7/1995
Hometown: Seoul, South Korea
Resides: Gyeonggi-do,
South Korea
Rookie Year: 2018
LPGA Tour Victories: 6
Career Earnings: $3.9 Million
@Go_JinYoung_Go
#NWAChampionship Record
Appearances: 2 | Best Finish: T9 | Event Top 10s: 1 | Low Round: 65
beyond
THE GOLF COURSE
FAVORITE VACATION DESTINATION? HIDDEN TALENT?
Staycation in Seoul Cleaning
FAVORITE THING ABOUT THE WHAT DID YOU WANT TO DO
#NWACHAMPIONSHIP? GROWING UP?
Ruth’s Chris Chicken & Waffle Cone during the Flight attendant
Pro-Am
FAVORITE GOLFER TO BE PAIRED
GO-TO KARAOKE SONG? WITH?
To Me by Bum-Soo Kim Justin Rose and Lorena Ochoa
CELEBRITY CRUSH? WHAT DO YOU MISS MOST ABOUT
Hyori Lee (Korean singer), Hye-Soo Kim HOME WHEN YOU ARE TRAVELING?
(Korean actress), Je-Hoon Lee (Korean actor) Walking my dog outside
FAVORITE MEAL?
Pho
TOURNAMENT MAGAZINE 31LEE6
jeongeun
Height: 5’5”
Birthday: 5/28/1996
Hometown: Gyeonggi-do,
South Korea
Resides: Los Angeles, CA
Rookie Year: 2019
LPGA Tour Victories:1
Career Earnings: $2 Million
@____6ix
beyond
THE GOLF COURSE
TV SHOW YOU’RE CURRENTLY FAVORITE MEAL?
BINGING ON NETFLIX? Everything
Modern Family
FAVORITE GOLFER TO BE PAIRED
FAVORITE VACATION DESTINATION? WITH?
Singapore and Canada Inbee Park
GO-TO KARAOKE SONG? WHAT DO YOU MISS MOST ABOUT
Korean song HOME WHEN YOU ARE TRAVELING?
Korean food
CELEBRITY CRUSH?
Gong Yoo (movie actor)
32 TOURNAMENT MAGAZINEPLAYER PROFILES
LINCICOME
brittany
Height: 5’9”
Birthday: 11/19/1985
Hometown: St. Petersburg, FL
Resides: Seminole, Florida
Rookie Year: 2005
LPGA Tour Victories: 8
Career Earnings: $9 Million
@Brittany1Golf
@Brittany1Golf
#NWAChampionship Record
Appearances: 12 | Best Finish: T10 | Event Top 10s: 1 | Low Round: 65
beyond
THE GOLF COURSE
TV SHOW YOU’RE CURRENTLY FAVORITE MEAL?
BINGING ON NETFLIX? Sushi
Blacklist
HIDDEN TALENT?
FAVORITE VACATION DESTINATION? I am great at taking naps
Home
WHAT DID YOU WANT TO DO
FAVORITE THING ABOUT THE GROWING UP?
#NWACHAMPIONSHIP? A veterinarian
The beautiful golf course, my housing and
Mellow Mushroom FAVORITE GOLFER TO BE PAIRED
WITH?
GO-TO KARAOKE SONG? A friend, Brittany Lang
Journey, Don’t Stop Believing
WHAT DO YOU MISS MOST ABOUT
CELEBRITY CRUSH? HOME WHEN YOU ARE TRAVELING?
Chris Hemsworth My bed
TOURNAMENT MAGAZINE 33EVENT FEATURE
why not
me
THE FANTASTIC EXPECTATIONS FOR MARIA FASSI
BY: STEVE EUBANKS | GLOBAL GOLF POST – JUNE 21, 2019
T The search often seems fruitless. Who will be
the women’s version of Tiger, the dominant fig-
ure who ticks all the right boxes and moves the
needle in a way that transcends the sport? Nan-
cy Lopez did it to a degree in the late 1970s,
a number of different countries. It’s a completely
global tour and it has a player that moves the
needle in each individual country. But it’s very
difficult to put one face on the LPGA Tour as a
successful needle-mover across all platforms.”
putting women’s golf in the minds of sports fans “Michelle Wie could have been that ultimate
who might not have otherwise paid a moment’s needle mover had she progressed and had win
attention. That was a different time, but Lopez, after win after win. But there hasn’t been a Tiger
with a big smile, an engaging personality and a Woods in the women’s game. Annika Sören-
great backstory of hardscrabble Mexcian-immi- stam was very dominant, but she didn’t quite
grant can-do-ism, elevated eyeballs and interest have that same charisma that Tiger seemed to
in the LPGA. exude on the golf course. Lorena Ochoa, she
For the next four decades, great players had some charisma but there hasn’t been one
have filtered through the LPGA ranks with the person that ticked every single box in women’s
popularity of the tour ebbing and flowing (there golf like you had with men. We have yet to find
are more fans now than ever before), but there a universal figure.”
hasn’t been a next Nancy or the women’s ver- Then Stupples thought for a second and
sion of Tiger. threw out a name, one that continues to get
Former Women’s British Open champion repeated in all “next great thing” conversations.
Karen Stupples had a thoughtful perspective on “There is a player that does excite me
why. that does have the potential,” Stupples said.
“I think there are needle movers in every “Whether she produces the wins on the golf
country that the LPGA has,” said Stupples, now course, I don’t know if that’ll happen yet. It’s
a Golf Channel commentator. “Brooke Hender- Maria Fassi. She has that smile; she has that
son moves the needle in Canada. Georgia Hall charisma; she has the personality that people
moves the needle in the UK, Lexi Thompson will just warm toward her. She’s bubbly, she bounces
move the needle here (in the US). And then you around the golf course. She is competitive yet
have Sung Hyun Park, she definitely moves the compassionate. She drives the ball a country
needle in Korea. Ariya Jutanugarn, she moves mile. And she has the technical skill to get the
the needle in Thailand. The LPGA is made up of job done.”
TOURNAMENT MAGAZINE 35“It’s very early days, and this is a Since turning pro following the
lot of pressure to put on her shoul- NCAA Championships, Fassi has
ders but Fassi has the characteristics finished T12 at the U.S. Women’s
that are required to be that.” Open and T34 at the ShopRite LPGA
Indeed, before she’d struck her Classic, respectable though not ex-
first shot in the KPMG Women’s PGA actly superstar performances. But her
Championship, Fassi, a 21-year-old length, her swing, her look and more
rookie, was generating the kind of charisma than the women’s game has
buzz rarely associated with players seen in some time has fans betting
making only their third professional that the results will follow.
start. Rarely has a rookie come out so
“I just played with a real star,” polished. Lydia Ko had plenty of sav-
PGA of America president Suzy Whal- vy when she burst on the scene but
ey said immediately after going out Ko had been giving interviews and
on Tuesday with Fassi. “She hit 4-iron engaging with fans since she was a
230 yards on one of the holes. She middle-schooler. Thompson got bet-
consistently hit hybrid past my driver. ter with age. But Fassi has everything.
But what’s really cool is that she hits it When she dons her trademark aviator
straight. She’s so strong and hits it so sunglasses she has exotic, movie-star
far. And she’s just a delight. She was looks. And there is little doubt that
fun to play with. She spoke to ev- she is an athlete. If you saw her away
eryone, thanked every volunteer she from the course, you might guess all
passed, and she just bombs it.” kinds of sports – she played soccer,
“You think of players like Nancy ran track and swam competitively be-
Lopez and Lee Trevino and others fore focusing on golf – but you would
who engaged the crowd and spoke definitely know you were looking at
to people between shots, it helped an athlete.
them to relax. She seems to have Her mother, Fabiana, was a profes-
that. It bodes well for her because sional field hockey player and her
she’s authentic.” father, Andres, was a professional
Fassi shot 73 on Thursday at soccer player who is now the vice
Hazeltine National but was one of president of the Club de Futbol Pa-
the stars of the morning wave even chuca. Maria’s brother, Sebastian, was
though she never led. It didn’t seem also a professional soccer player until
to matter. Not yet anyway. With the an injury moved him into the front
swagger of a superstar and the look office with their dad.
of a movie star, Fassi acknowledged “She’s a beautiful kid who is
every shout of “Go Maria.” She high- blessed athletically,” Taylor said. “But
fived every fan that stuck a hand in- there’s more to it than that. When you
side a gallery rope. When one of the come from a highly competitive back-
maintenance workers made a special ground like her family is in soccer,
trip to the area between the 17th you learn at a young age about the
green and 18th tee to wish her well value of fans and having support and
in Spanish, Fassi, a native of Pachuca, connecting with people. That lesson
Mexico, engaged the man in a full-on really had an impact on her. But also,
conversation. she just has a big heart.”
“She is a great player but she is “One of the first times I saw Maria
even more awesome person,” said play was in a junior event in Florida.
Shauna Taylor, who was Fassi’s col- Maria had a pushcart and the girl in
lege coach at Arkansas. “Maria is the her group had a carry bag. The other
light and the spark that the LPGA girl hurt her back and Maria, mid-
needs. She will shake every hand, kiss round, gave her pushcart to the other
every baby and sign everything. It kid to help her. When you’re looking
was just a matter of time before she at somebody who is 14 years old at
came out (on the LPGA) and let her the time, to see that kind of sensitivity
light shine.” to your fellow competitor, I thought
36 TOURNAMENT MAGAZINEEVENT FEATURE
that spoke more about Maria than in a way to support not only her but can she capitalize on it? We’ll see.
how far she could hit it or anything to support the game of golf in a She can hit her wedges different
that she could do with a golf ball. bigger picture. That’s what every- trajectories; she can hit draws and
She’s just a good human.” body is really looking for, a needle fades and knockdowns. She has the
As for the rest of her game, mover.” tools.”
Fassi won the NCAA individual title That needle isn’t always easy to “Will she become the game’s
in May but burst onto the scene a quantify. But the golf is. Taylor did next superstar? That’s up to Maria.”
month earlier in her epic duel with that as well as anyone. “Her com- Fassi didn’t shyly wince at those
Jennifer Kupcho in the Augusta fortable swing speed is 108 where lofty expectations. She never has.
National Women’s Amateur, where we know she can keep her bal- When she was 17 and sat in Taylor’s
she ultimately finished second. As ance,” the coach said. “I’ve seen it office for the first time, the college
Stupples put it, “Fassi pulled Jen- get to 111. But 108 is her number coach asked, “What do you want
nifer Kupcho along at the Augusta where the smash-factor is efficient to do with your life?” Fassi didn’t
National Women’s Amateur. It was and where she’s in control.” hesitate: “I want to be the No. 1
Maria’s personality that really drove “When we work on TrackMan player in the world,” she said.
the whole narrative around those with her, we look at PGA Tour “She and I talk a lot about ex-
two, their friendship and that whole numbers, not LPGA Tour numbers. pectations,” Taylor said. “They can
deal there.” She hits it like a guy. When she hits be a hurdle to success sometimes.
“She has the ability to pull it, you’re like, ‘Damn, is that a girl?’ She’s very aware of it. She works
people together and to unite them Because she totally hits it like a on it in her mental training. She
guy. Maria can do things with a golf has created a road map and the
ball that no one else can. It was fame that comes with being great
so fun to walk by her side and say, is just a part of it. She knows there
‘Yeah, let’s hit 4-iron over this pond is a burden that goes with expecta-
off a downslope.’ You’d let her do tions. She struggled with them in
things that you wouldn’t let other college. But we’ve been very open
players do. There were times when and honest and talked about it.
she was a couple over for the day, She’s recognized some of her faults
we’d come to a drivable par-4 over and how we can train and get bet-
trouble and I’d say, ‘Dude, let’s go ter. She wants to win like everybody
for it. You need a jump-start, let’s else and she wants to be No. 1 in
go get it right now.’ She loves that the world. That’s what drives her.”
sort of stuff.” “She’ll have some pitfalls. She’s
“She smokes it but she also really in tune with her feelings
has gears. This year (in college) and with her body and she’ll get
statistically, she hit 68 percent of through that. She is complete.”
her fairways, which is amazing to When asked about the burden
be that long. With speed comes of being labeled the next poten-
distance but the misses are usually tial superstar, Fassi’s hazel eyes
bigger. With Fassi, she is rarely out sparkled.
of play.” “That’s what I want to be,” she
Whaley, who played the LPGA said. “That’s what I want to become
Tour early in her career, saw the and I know I just have to work hard
same thing. “She certainly has and stay patient and one day that’s
the tools and the determination,” going to be it.
she said. “She’s really long but “I knew people knew who I was
also straight. And we’ve seen her and it’s just been really nice to see
perform well (at Augusta and in the their reaction to my game and to
NCAAs). She has the ability. But we my attitude. Having their support
know that there aren’t many who has been key.
can become superstars. Do I think “I mean (the burden of expecta-
she can do it? I sure do. There are tions) is definitely not a light one.
a lot of young players who can. But But I’d rather have (people) say that
with her power, she has an advan- than say something else. I mean,
tage. When you have a 50-yard someone has got to be the next
advantage, the question becomes, superstar. Why not me, right?”
TOURNAMENT MAGAZINE 37Work with fewer barriers wherever your office is these days When barriers across departments disappear and work flows naturally, your teams experience work they'll love to do. And this is more important now than ever. Because behind every great experience is a great workflow. The smarter way to workflow™
LPGA FEATURE
PUPPY
love
MORGAN PRESSEL’S
zoe bean
2 YEAR OLD
MINI ENGLISH GOLDENDOODLE
TELL US YOUR ADOPTION STORY OR QUIRKIEST/SILLIEST THING ABOUT
WHY YOU CHOSE YOUR DOG. YOUR DOG?
We met a mini English goldendoodle She doesn’t really like to cuddle other
when we were on vacation in California than first thing in the morning, she will
wine country, and fell in love! Sweet, snuggle in and be very lovey (and yes, of
smart, adorable, and friendly! course she sleeps in our bed). And she
is always the last one out of bed, the girl
FAVORITE THING YOU AND YOUR DOG loves her beauty rest!
DO TOGETHER?
Zoe’s favorite activity is to go on a golf WHAT IS YOUR DOG’S BEST TRICK?
cart ride. If she sees a golf cart anywhere She has a very dramatic “play dead” and
around, she will try to get to it and hop her “sit pretty” has gotten really good!
in! She also loves trick training for treats. Her best trick is probably “wait,” as she
will wait a ridiculously long time when
WHAT ARE A FEW OF YOUR DOG’S there’s a treat in front of her!
FAVORITE THINGS?
Like most dogs, she loves her lamb DOES YOUR DOG TRAVEL WITH YOU
chop toy, as well as just about any toy TO LPGA EVENTS? OR STAY HOME
she can use to play tug. She also loves WITH FAMILY/FRIENDS?
food (except her own kibble, of course). She travels with me domestically, and
Salmon, steak, eggs, sweet potatoes - she loves visiting all our friends around the
has quite the refined palette! country and traveling with her fellow tour
pups! On international trips she stays
home with my husband or our friends.
TOURNAMENT MAGAZINE 39CAROLINE MASSON’S
maggie & ace
4 YEAR OLD
GOLDENDOODLES
TELL US YOUR ADOPTION STORY WHAT ARE A FEW OF YOUR DOG’S
OR WHY YOU CHOSE YOUR DOG. FAVORITE THINGS?
We played in the #NWAChampionship, His ball (he absolutely takes it
and during the practice days, the family everywhere) and a monkey and
living next to Hole #10 set up chicken tiger toy he always loves to play
wire with Goldendoodle puppies.
with. He also loves to eat and is
Needless to say, most of us players
hung out there to play with the puppies
happy with anything from carrots
a lot. My boyfriend’s family had to put to bacon!
down their chocolate lab Logan just a
QUIRKIEST/SILLIEST THING ABOUT
few days prior, and we thought it would
YOUR DOG?
be the right time to get a new puppy.
We picked Maggie for Jason’s brother Ace loves to sleep on his back with
- she was super adventurous. Ace was his ball in his mouth. We find him
more the sleepy and cuddly kind. My in the funniest sleeping positions!
boyfriend Jason caddied for Haru
Nomura back then, and Haru made a WHAT IS YOUR DOG’S BEST TRICK?
Hole-in-One on #11 that week, so that’s He’s really good at rolling over.
how we came up with his name Ace. We have practiced it so much that
We actually changed all of our travel as soon as I show him a treat, he
plans, canceled our flight home and starts rolling all over the place. No
instead drove Maggie to Charleston matter if I ask him to do it or not!
to drop her off with Jason’s brother
and then drove Ace home to Florida. I DOES YOUR DOG TRAVEL WITH YOU
missed the cut that year but it was still TO LPGA EVENTS? OR STAY HOME
the best week ever! WITH FAMILY/FRIENDS?
Ace stays with my in-laws while we
FAVORITE THING YOU AND YOUR
DOG DO TOGETHER?
travel. He’s just too big to come
Ace loves to play fetch and cuddle on the road with us and loves
in the mornings. living with them and his other
sister Bailey, who is a chocolate lab
rescue.
ANNIE PARK’S
knight
1.5 YEAR OLD
MINI AUSSIEDOODLE
40 TOURNAMENT MAGAZINELPGA FEATURE
INBEE PARK’S
rio 4 YEAR OLD
GOLDEN RETRIEVER
TELL US YOUR ADOPTION QUIRKIEST/SILLIEST THING
STORY OR WHY YOU CHOSE ABOUT YOUR DOG?
YOUR DOG. He loves food... just any kind of
I always wanted to raise a dog, food... veggies, fruits, meats, his
and my husband I talked about nibbles, even rocks.. one time
it all the time. After winning he ate a rock and had to have an
gold at the 2016 Rio Olympics, emergency surgery unfortunately.
my husband brought Rio to the
airport as a surprise. WHAT IS YOUR DOG’S BEST
TRICK?
FAVORITE THING YOU AND He does turns, sits and high
YOUR DOG DO TOGETHER? fives. He can even do turns in the
We just love spending time water! He is really really good
together whether it is walking, swimmer.
swimming or even just staying at
home together. It is so special to DOES YOUR DOG TRAVEL
spend time with him since I am WITH YOU TO LPGA EVENTS?
away quite a bit of the year. OR STAY HOME WITH FAMILY/
FRIENDS?
WHAT ARE A FEW OF YOUR He stays in Korea most of the
DOG’S FAVORITE THINGS? time, but he did make one trip to
Rio loves spending time with us US for about 6 months.
although he loves going on a
date with his girlfriend. We take
both of them to parks, swimming
pools, rooftops, or walking the
Han River in Korea.. her name is
Jessica, our neighbor’s dog.
WHY DID YOU CHOOSE YOUR DOG? QUIRKIEST THING ABOUT YOUR DOG?
He was spunky, very energetic and ADORABLE! He doesn’t like being outside or grass. He has this
judgemental stare at me when I bring him outdoors! He
FAVORITE THING YOU AND YOUR DOG DO hates sharing toys.
TOGETHER?
Cuddle with each other! WHAT IS YOUR DOG’S BEST TRICK?
He can play catch by himself! He can throw a toy pretty far
WHAT ARE A FEW OF YOUR DOG’S FAVORITE and even aim at your face.
THINGS?
Himalayan milk bone, his toys, food, anything fluffy, balls DOES YOUR DOG TRAVEL WITH YOU TO LPGA
EVENTS? OR STAY HOME WITH FAMILY/FRIENDS?
He travels sometimes, but I have family and friends who
look after him at home.
TOURNAMENT MAGAZINE 4142 TOURNAMENT MAGAZINE
RAZORBACK FEATURE
road
to the
#nwachampionship
T The Road to the #NWAChampionship pro-
gram began in 2015 as a partnership between
the University of Arkansas Women’s Golf Team
and the LPGA tournament to guarantee the
best performing student-athlete on the team a
their game again the best female golfers in the
world.
“The Road to #NWAChampionship has
become one of our favorite traditions on the
team,” explains Shauna Estes-Taylor, Univer-
Sponsor’s Exemption in the professional event. sity of Arkansas Head Women’s Golf Coach.
In addition, two qualifying spots are reserved “The process inspires much more than great
for the next best performing Razorback athletes golf—it gives us an opportunity to hone skills
in the tournament’s qualifier round. our players will need in the future like writing
The Road to the #NWAChampionship began and resume building. We thank the tournament
in an effort to formalize the process of selection for their ongoing support which year after year
for the sponsor’s exemption and qualifier spots proves invaluable to our program”
that historically have been given to Razorback Through the Road to the #NWAChampion-
athletes. Since its inception many Razorback ship program, current Razorback student-ath-
players including Gaby Lopez, Maria Fassi, letes Brooke Matthews, Mariah Hoyos and Ela
Kaylee Benton and Dylan Kim have participated Anacona will receive a spot in the 2020 #NWA-
in the #NWAChampionship for a chance to test Championship tournament field.
TOURNAMENT MAGAZINE 43RAZORBACK FEATURE
razorbacks in the
#NWACHAMPIONSHIP
2007 2008 2009 2010 2011
Stacy Lewis Stacy Lewis and Kelli
competes in the Three current Emily Tubert makes
Shean compete in
Amateur Stacy Lewis tournament as a or former her first appearance
the event, with Stacy
unofficially wins the first professional for the Razorbacks at the tournament.
notching a top-10 finish.
#NWAChampionship. first time. make the field:
Stacy Lewis,
Kelli Shean and
Kristin Ingram.
2012 2013 2014 2015 2016
Stacy Lewis wins the Five current
Stacy Lewis and Gaby Lopez makes her #NWAChampionship!
The Road to the #NWAChampionship or former
Emily Tubert first appearance in the
program is announced, guaranteeing a Razorbacks
make the field. event and Stacy Lewis
sponsor’s exemption and two qualifier make the field
finishes in the top five. – the most in
spots to current Razorbacks each year.
history.
2017 2018 2019
Five Razorbacks make the Four Razorbacks competed
field once again, with Stacy in the event, with Dylan Six Razorbacks
Lewis and Gaby Lopez both Kim advancing out of the made the
finishing in the top ten. Qualifier to make her first tournament field
tournament appearance. with Gaby Lopez
finishing in the
top 15.
TOURNAMENT MAGAZINE 4546 TOURNAMENT MAGAZINE
RAZORBACK FEATURE
GET TO KNOW THE
CURRENT RAZORBACKS
+ 2020 SPONSOR’S EXEMPTIONS
BROOKE MARIA ELA
matthews hoyos anacona
HOMETOWN HOMETOWN HOMETOWN
Rogers, AR Pereira, Colombia Buenos Aires, Argentina
MAJOR MAJOR MAJOR
Marketing Finance Economics
FAVORITE TRAVEL FAVORITE TRAVEL FAVORITE TRAVEL
DESTINATION DESTINATION DESTINATION
Bahamas Isla Mucura (Colombia) Orlando, Florida
FAVORITE GOLFER FAVORITE GOLFER FAVORITE GOLFER
Tiger Woods
All of the ProHogs :) Tiger Woods
HOBBY OUTSIDE HOBBY OUTSIDE HOBBY OUTSIDE
OF GOLF OF GOLF OF GOLF
Baking, Zumba and
Hanging Out with Friends Reading
Playing Board Games
FAVORITE BINGE- FAVORITE BINGE- FAVORITE BINGE-
WORTHY NETFLIX WORTHY NETFLIX WORTHY NETFLIX
SERIES SERIES SERIES
The 100 Grey’s Anatomy
Blindspot
TOURNAMENT MAGAZINE 47Restaurant
Week A
ug
2
us
t
4-30
R
est
aurantwe
ekspec
ial
s
a
vai
labl
eatBI
TENWA.
comGIVING BACK
miles
for mercy
RALLYING THE COMMUNITY FOR GOOD
T The Walmart NW Arkansas Championship
presented by P&G transformed its annual 5k @
the LPGA into a virtual community challenge
in 2020 to raise money for the Mercy Health
Foundation. Miles for Mercy, which was held
Individuals of all ages participated, and miles
were completed on each participant’s route of
choice. The race incorporated the scenic NW
Arkansas trail system and shared suggested
routes located at the Mercy Trailhead in Rog-
June 15 – 20, raised $17,000 for the foundation ers, the Crystal Bridges Trail in Bentonville, Lake
and invited participants to run for healthcare he- Fayetteville, and Lake Springdale. Participants
roes fighting on the frontlines of the COVID-19 were encouraged to use these outdoor trails
pandemic. while practicing social distancing.
TOURNAMENT MAGAZINE 4950 TOURNAMENT MAGAZINE
GIVING BACK
Over 1,450 individuals participated in the challenge, with
9,759 miles completed throughout the week. For each mile
walked or run by participants, Procter & Gamble pledged
a $1 donation to the foundation, with additional funds
pledged to meet a $15,000 goal. In addition, $2,000 was
raised through participant donations made during the event
registration process, for a final donation total of $17,000.
Since 2015, $67,000 has been raised for the Mercy Health
Foundation through the 5k @ the LPGA and Miles for Mercy.
As part of the Miles for Mercy initiative, participants
were encouraged to share their experiences and honor lo-
cal healthcare workers on social media using the hashtag
#MilesForMercy. LPGA players including Morgan Pressel,
Gaby Lopez and Stacy Lewis also joined in to support the
campaign. The social media initiative received support local-
ly from Danyelle Musselman, wife of Razorback head men’s
basketball coach Eric Musselman and their daughter Mariah.
As a culmination to event week, Miles for Mercy finish line
photo opportunities were installed along the trail system in
MILES
various locations for participants to enjoy and share photos
across social media.
The Miles for Mercy event also featured a Corporate Chal-
FOR MERCY
lenge competition, with 31 local offices participating in the
initiative. P&G was recognized for the most participants and
most total miles completed, while Community Fit was award-
ed the title for most spirited team via social media. Walmart’s
Jennifer Sorenson was recognized as the event’s individual
top finishers
winner, completing 165 miles during the challenge.
The Walmart NW Arkansas Championship presented TOP FEMALES
by P&G returns August 24-30 to Pinnacle Country Club in 1. Jennifer Sorenson
Rogers, featuring 156 of the best female golfers in the world 2. Tonya Weaver
competing for the #NWAChampionship title. 3. Becky Adams
TOP MALES
1. Dongjoon Lee
ABOUT
2. Marc Hawbaker
3. Jeremy Morgan
TOP FAMILIES
MERCY HEALTH
1. Thielman Family
2. Hall Family
3. Barber Family
FOUNDATION CORPORATE CHALLENGE
FITTEST OFFICE
Through collaborative partnerships, Mercy & FASTEST OFFICE:
Procter & Gamble –
Health Foundation impacts the flourishing of 85 participants // 1,436 miles
our communities by inviting into their ministry
those who have a passion to improve quality of
MOST SPIRITED:
life and make care accessible for all. To learn Community Fit
more and support the Mercy Health Foundation,
visit MercyHealthFoundation.net.
TOURNAMENT MAGAZINE 51PARTNER PROFILE
leading
the city
“WHERE POSSIBLE LIVES”
Mayor Greg Hines is a lifelong Rogers Did you always know you history to be elected to the Rogers
wanted to work in government/
resident, and has served as the City’s
City Council, where I served for 12
public service? How did you get years, prior to becoming Mayor. On
mayor since 2011. Under his leadership, the your start? January 1, 2011, I was sworn in as
City has received prestigious certification During the 1993-1994 school year, the 40th Mayor of Rogers.
I ran for mayor in our Student
for emergency services, has improved local Government program at Rogers How did your career in law
facilities, and has increased its reserve High School. This was a great enforcement prepare you for
your current role as mayor?
fund – all to help ensure that every citizen learning experience for me and
really sparked my interest in My career in law enforcement
has the chance to prosper and live a pursuing a career in government/ served as a very solid base before
successful life in Rogers. Hines’ support public service. John Sampier was becoming mayor. Law enforcement
is one of the most important
has been integral to the success of the
mayor at the time, and I was able
to get to know him through this forms of public service, along with
LPGA tournament throughout the event’s experience. To this day, Mayor our other essential emergency
history. From organizing local emergency Sampier continues to remind me services, and you learn how to
that during one of our meetings I interact with your community on a
personnel to assisting with event told him that I was going to take his deeper level and understand the
permitting, the City is a valued partner for position as mayor one day. I would needs of the people. It taught me
the #NWAChampionship. As an avid golf say my career in the government/
public service sector officially
strategic interpersonal skills that
are necessary in my role as mayor,
fan, the tournament is also a special week started when I began working for along with how to make sensible
for Mayor Hines and his family. As the the Benton County Sheriff’s Office. decisions in extremely tough
circumstances and sometimes
LPGA Tour returns in 2020, Mayor Greg
I spent 10 years in law enforcement
and served as the lead investigator under extreme pressure.
Hines looks forward to welcoming back the in some of the most high-profile
#NWAChampionship to his home, the City crimes in Benton County. In 1998,
I was the youngest member in
‘Where Possible Lives’.
TOURNAMENT MAGAZINE 5354 TOURNAMENT MAGAZINE
PARTNER PROFILE
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced What is your personal leadership
in your career? philosophy?
I’ve faced many challenges during my career, My personal leadership philosophy revolves
but one of the biggest would probably be around developing a common vision, creating
when I first took office in 2011. The City, in its an atmosphere of teamwork and instilling
entirety, had previously been operating under confidence in my employees by trusting them
a “top-down” leadership style, and I had to to make decisions and do their jobs to the
implement a completely new philosophy, best of their ability. My goal is to provide the
because my leadership strategy was very supervision, support and resources that each
different. The main challenge I faced was department within the City needs in order
instilling the confidence level in employees, to be successful and to achieve the common
so they would begin working with a more vision that we all have for Rogers.
“bottom-up” decision-making process.
My belief is that I have hired and retained Who is your mentor/role model?
department heads and employees that are My faith is a vital part of my life and plays
professionals in their respective areas of work, a huge role in my decision-making when it
and I trust them to do their jobs to the best comes to my family, my position as Mayor and
of their ability and make decisions that will my life in general. My family and I are active
positively benefit our community with my members of Central United Methodist Church,
supervision. and our ultimate goal is to try to live, make
decisions and interact with others as Jesus
What professional achievement/ desires to the best of our ability.
accomplishment are you most proud of? LAST BOOK YOU READ?
Under my leadership, there are three How does the #NWAChampionship impact The Gatekeepers for the 2nd time.
accomplishments that have occurred that I the City of Rogers?
am very proud of and that have tremendously The #NWAChampionship brings a unique
impacted the community of Rogers in a very level of energy and excitement to the City BEST/FAVORITE ADVICE
positive way: of Rogers. This event is something that our
business and residential community looks
YOU’VE RECEIVED?
“Hope for the best, plan for the worst,
1. Our City is one of very few in the nation forward to hosting and participating in each
and move on.” or one of my favorite
to receive and retain accreditation for all year, and in a sense, it brings us all together.
quotes by Lee Scott, Retired CEO
three emergency services: Police, Fire Our community looks forward to seeing how
of Walmart: “Just because you’re
and EMS services. the event is going to evolve each year, as each
passionate about something does not
year continues to get bigger and better than
2. The passage of the 2011 and 2018 Bond make you right.”
the previous.
Issues have had a tremendous impact on
the improvement of City facilities and What is your favorite memory from the
services in Rogers. The public approval LPGA tournament over the years? DREAM FOURSOME IN GOLF?
ratings for almost half a billion dollars I’ll start by acknowledging that I have several It’s a two-person team scramble: Greg
were well above 70 percent and showed favorite memories and stories that I love to Norman, Jack Nicklaus, Stacy Lewis,
an overwhelming amount of support tell about the #NWAChampionship. If I had to Adam Scott, Fred Couples, Laura
and understanding for the need of each choose just one, I would reflect back to 2007 Davies, Tiger Woods
proposed project. when Stacy Lewis won the championship as an
amateur by 1 stroke. She was also the reigning
3. The City has built a reserve fund of Individual Champion for NCAA Women’s FAVORITE ATHLETE?
almost $42 million. When I took office Golf that same year. Stacy was a four-time Greg Norman “The Shark”
in 2011, the balance was $16.3 million All-American at the University of Arkansas. It
and at the end of 2019, the balance was really an indescribable feeling - to be in
was $41.9 million. This fund serves the Rogers in NWA at the NWA Championship FAVORITE TRAVEL
purpose of preventing a disruption in watching one of our very own local graduates DESTINATION?
normal City operations in the event of an take home the trophy of an LPGA tournament. Utrecht, Netherlands
economic or natural disaster. During this That was definitely one of my favorite
same time of building up the reserves, memories.
I was also able to lower taxes twice in
nine years. What is your favorite part of
#NWAChampionship Week?
What is your vision/dream for the City of I, personally, love the Pro-Am and look forward
Rogers? to participating in it every year. I also really
My vision and dream for the City of Rogers enjoy getting the opportunity to interact
is to make sure it continues to be one of with our community. This event provides
the best cities in the state, and even in the an opportunity for ALL families in Rogers
country, to live, work and play. I have instituted to participate by offering a wide variety of
a Comprehensive Growth Map and plan for activities at affordable prices. It is wonderful
the City of Rogers that will encourage growth to see so many familiar faces coming together
but also maintain the true identity and history for this event, and I enjoy getting to visit
of our community. Rogers proudly boasts with everyone and see persons of all ages
the motto of being the City “Where Possible celebrating together as a community.
Lives”, and my vision is to make sure that we
provide the resources and services to uphold
this motto and to be inclusive of all persons
within our community, so that everyone has a
chance to succeed and lead a successful life
here in Rogers.
TOURNAMENT MAGAZINE 552019 RETROSPECTIVE
2019
Retrospective
The Walmart NW Arkansas Championship
presented by P&G returned in 2019 for
an exciting 13th year – the first rain-
free week in the event’s history! The
tournament celebrated the culture of
NW Arkansas with a week of community
events and family-friendly activities.
The Walmart and Always Discovery Green
provided children of all ages with hands-
on activities focused on science, technol-
ogy, engineering art and math. Always Live
#LikeAGirl Day was introduced on Saturday
with a scavenger hunt aimed to empower
young girls to pursue their dreams.
TOURNAMENT MAGAZINE 572019 RETROSPECTIVE
The 5k @ the LPGA benefiting Mercy had its
largest turnout in event history with 1,500+
runners and 30 Corporate Challenge teams.
BITE NW Arkansas continued to grow with
over 9,000 guests and 75 restaurants during
the 3-night food festival, featuring the best
of the NW Arkansas culinary scene. BITE
Onsite was introduced at the tournament
on Saturday, bringing the unique BITE food
experience to fans at the golf course.
Once again, the #NWAChampionship hosted the
world’s best female golfers, with a field consisting
of 7 former #1 ranked players. Sung Hyun Park
took home the 2019 trophy, and with her win
locked in her spot as the #1 player in the world.
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