#NWACHAMPIONSHIP - JUNE 24-30, 2019 PINNACLE COUNTRY CLUB - 2019 Tournament Magazine - NWA Championship
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#NWACHAMPIONSHIP
2019 Tournament Magazine
JUNE 24-30, 2019
PINNACLE COUNTRY CLUB
WELCOME
FROM WALMART
On behalf of Walmart and Sam’s Club Associates around the world,
welcome to the Walmart NW Arkansas Championship presented by
P&G.
We are honored to host this event that celebrates the NW Arkansas
community and highlights what makes this region so special. From
the three-night food festival to the women’s empowerment summit
and the charitable 5k race, there are truly events and activities for
everyone in the community to enjoy. I’m so excited to experience
#NWAChampionship Week for the first time with my family this year!
Being new to the community, I’m amazed by all of the family-friendly
activities that are offered at the golf tournament. Children can
explore the onsite kid’s center full of engaging, hands-on activations
or meet their favorite players in Autograph Alley. There’s even a free
yoga class for children on Tuesday!
Walmart is committed to helping families save money to live better,
and that’s certainly no exception at the #NWAChampionship. Daily
tickets are available for only $10 and food and drink options are
priced at $3 or less. I encourage you to bring out your family to join
the fun this June.
Walmart is especially proud to support an event that gives back
to the community and important charitable causes. For over 30
years Walmart has partnered with Children’s Miracle Network to
raise $1 billion for children’s hospitals. We’re excited to continue
this campaign in 2019 by partnering with Play Yellow at the
#NWAChampionship. Play Yellow, an initiative of Jack and Barbara
Nicklaus, has committed to raising $100 million over the next
five years to help children receive the world-class treatment they
need to live better. Be on the lookout for yellow pin flags during
the tournament and make sure to stop by the Main Admissions,
where spectators will have the opportunity to donate to Children’s
Miracle Network. Every attendee that donates to CMN during the
tournament will receive a yellow ribbon to wear and show their
support!
Thank you to all of the LPGA players, tournament sponsors,
volunteers, partners and guests that help make the Walmart NW
Arkansas Championship presented by P&G a wonderful experience
every year. I look forward to being a part of the tournament this year
and hope to see you out on the course!
Barbara Messing
Barbara Messing
Senior Vice President, Chief Marketing Officer
TOURNAMENT MAGAZINE 1
WELCOME
FROM P&G
On behalf of Procter & Gamble, welcome to the Walmart NW
Arkansas Championship presented by P&G.
Every year I look forward to the #NWAChampionship, and I’m so
excited that it’s finally here. Through affordable family activities,
community-driven events and world-class golf, the tournament
brings together the entire region for a week-long celebration of
what helps to make Northwest Arkansas such a great place to Work
& Live!
I’m excited to share with you a new community event that will be
debuting on Saturday of #NWChampionship Week. P&G is proud
to host the inaugural Always Live #LikeAGirl Day during this year’s
tournament. All young girls and families are invited to attend this
celebration to honor the talented female athletes of the LPGA Tour.
The special day will feature activities focused on confidence-building
and empowerment, while encouraging girls of all ages to dream big
through interaction with the role models of the LPGA. I can’t wait to
see many young girls cheering on their favorite golfers on Hole #17
on Saturday!
We are also delighted for the return of the Walmart and Always
Live #LikeAGirl STEAM Center for the second year. Last year, the
STEAM Center hosted over 2,500 children throughout tournament
week, helping to inspire the next generation of engineers, coders,
scientists and beyond. We have even more fun and engaging
activities for kids of all ages planned for 2019! For families attending
the tournament – the STEAM Center is a place you don’t want to
miss and is FREE once you are at the event! Make sure to stop by
during the tournament for hands-on science experiments, arts and
crafts projects, activities from the Amazeum and more.
A huge thank you to Walmart, our tournament volunteers and
our many community supporters that help make the Walmart NW
Arkansas Championship presented by P&G a success every year. The
#NWAChampionship was named the Tournament of the Year on the
LPGA Tour in 2018, and with even more community-driven events
and family-friendly activities this year, I’m confident this will be best
#NWAChampionship yet! I hope to see you at Pinnacle Country
Club later this month.
Mindy Sherwood
Mindy Sherwood
Vice President, Procter & Gamble Walmart Global Customer Team
TOURNAMENT MAGAZINE 3
WELCOME
FROM THE MAYOR OF ROGERS
Welcome to Rogers, Arkansas and the Walmart NW Arkansas
Championship presented by P&G. The citizens of Rogers are excited
to once again host this LPGA tour event and we want to ensure all of
our visitors have a wonderful experience during their stay.
The City of Rogers sincerely thanks Walmart, Procter & Gamble,
and Pinnacle Country Club for their commitment to making this
a successful event each year. I would also like to extend a special
thanks to the Hudson family for their commitment to excellence
and investment in Pinnacle. Many Northwest Arkansas corporations,
businesses, civic clubs, and individual volunteers have contributed
countless resources and hundreds of hours of their time to make
this one of the finest stops on the tour, and their efforts are greatly
appreciated.
Welcome to Rogers, the city Where Possible Lives. Whether you are
returning to the tournament or getting your first experience, I urge
you to get out and explore everything Northwest Arkansas has to
offer. Rogers has the unique ability to offer the amenities of a major
metropolis, while still maintaining its 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. Feel the rush of adrenaline at our nationally acclaimed
Railyard Bike Park. Relax at our 236-acre Lake Atalanta Park.
We’re growing rapidly in Rogers. 32 people a day decide to make
Northwest Arkansas their new home. If you think you’ve seen
everything in a previous visit, our city has plenty more to explore.
Of course, with rapid growth, comes heavy construction. Please
be patient with us as we work to bring a $240 million bond issue to
life with new infrastructure, parks, trails, and updates to our public
safety. We are confident that once you experience Rogers, this won’t
be your last visit to the City Where Possible Lives.
If we can be of any assistance during your stay, please do not
hesitate to ask. We are truly here to serve you. The phone number
for City Hall is (479) 621-1117 and to contact Visit Rogers please call
(479) 636-1240. Keep up with us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter
@Rogers1881.
Enjoy your stay in Rogers!
Sincerely,
Greg Hines
Greg Hines
City of Rogers Mayor
TOURNAMENT MAGAZINE 5
WELCOME
FROM THE LPGA COMMISSIONER
On behalf of the LPGA Tour, WELCOME to the 2019 Walmart
NW Arkansas Championship presented by P&G.
The LPGA is Golf’s Global Tour. In 2019, the Tour will visit
14 countries, television coverage will span 165 countries
and between the LPGA and Symetra Tours, this season will
showcase players from more than 50 countries.
But our players are so much more than just world-class
athletes. They are businesswomen, mothers, community
leaders, philanthropists and game-changers. They are driven
to not only make a difference on the golf course, but also set
an example for millions of young girls who are inspired by
them. In a nutshell, they are following the examples set by our
13 incredible LPGA Founders.
Their hard work is paying rich dividends. The winner of the
season-long Race to the CME Globe will earn $1.5 million,
the largest single prize ever in women’s golf, while the
Aon Risk Reward Challenge will award the season’s most
strategic player with $1 million, a prize matched to their male
counterparts. The LPGA Tour is setting records in purses,
television coverage and corporate support. In fact, more
companies have joined the LPGA in the last few years than in
any other similar time in LPGA history!
In short – what a time to be a part of the LPGA Tour. The
future is bright, and we look forward to an exciting 2019
season.
Our special thanks go to Walmart, P&G and Pinnacle Country
Club. Without your vision and support, this tournament simply
would not be possible. To our volunteers, tournament staff
and fans, THANK YOU for supporting the LPGA, our players
and the future of women’s golf.
Finally, I encourage you to meet our players. Ask for
autographs. Learn their stories. I promise that you won’t be
disappointed.
Sincerely,
Michael Whan
Michael Whan
LPGA Fan and Commissioner
TOURNAMENT MAGAZINE 7TABLE OF CONTENTS
19
43
53
contents
13
29
ON THE GOLF OFF THE GOLF COURSE
COURSE Special Events 19
Schedule of Events 10 Event Feature 43
Fan Attractions 13 Charity Feature 57
Spectator Information 17
Quick Facts 25 BEHIND THE SCENES
Tournament Timeline 26 LPGA Feature 47
Player Profiles 29 Partner Profile 62
Razorback Feature 53 2018 Retrospective 67
Course Map 74 Social Media Highlights 71
Hole by Hole Guide 77 Volunteer Spotlight 73
Which LPGA Player
Are You? 87
TOURNAMENT MAGAZINE 9MONDAY, JUNE 24
CLOSED TO PUBLIC
Professional Practice Rounds
1:00 P.M.
Qualifier Tournament
TUESDAY, JUNE 25 THURSDAY, JUNE 27
GATES OPEN AT 8:00 A.M. GATES OPEN AT 8:00 A.M.
Professional Practice Rounds Official Pro-Am, Day 2
10:00 A.M. – 11:00 A.M. 7:30 A.M. – 12:00 P.M.
Yoga for ids presented by Dove | Hub479 Walmart Women’s Empowerment Summit presented by
Kimberly-Clark | JQH Convention Center
10:00 A.M. – 3:00 P.M.
Walmart and Always STEAM Center Open
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 26 6:00 P.M. – 9:00 P.M.
GATES OPEN AT 8:00 A.M. BITE | Discover | 8th Street Market, Bentonville
Official Pro-Am, Day 1
10:00 A.M. – 3:00 P.M.
Walmart and Always STEAM Center Open
6:00 P.M. – 9:00 P.M.
BITE | Spark | 8th Street Market, Bentonville
10 TOURNAMENT MAGAZINESCHEDULE OF EVENTS
FRIDAY, JUNE 28
GATES OPEN AT 7:00 A.M.
First Round of Competition
10:00 A.M. – 4:00 P.M.
Walmart and Always STEAM Center Open
11:00 A.M. – 1:30 P.M.
SUNDAY, JUNE 30
Golf Channel Live Broadcast
GATES OPEN AT 7:00 A.M.
6:00 P.M. – 9:00 P.M. Final Round of Competition
BITE | Craft | 8th Street Market, Bentonville
9:30 A.M. – 10:30 A.M.
Yoga on the Green | Hub479
SATURDAY, JUNE 29 10:00 A.M. – 4:00 P.M.
Walmart and Always STEAM Center Open
GATES OPEN AT 7:00 A.M. 11:00 A.M. – 3:00 P.M.
Second Round of Competition | Always Live The First Tee Junior Golf Zone presented by Dove
#LikeAGirl Day | 9th Hole Putting Green
7:30 A.M. 2:00 P.M. – 5:00 P.M.
5k @ the LPGA benefiting Mercy | Walmart AMP Golf Channel Live Broadcast
10:00 A.M. – 4:00 P.M. 18th Green Ceremony Immediately Following Play
Walmart and Always STEAM Center Open
11:00 A.M. – 3:00 P.M.
BITE Onsite | Hub479
2:00 P.M. – 5:00 P.M.
Golf Channel Live Broadcast
TOURNAMENT MAGAZINE 11FAN ATTRACTIONS
GOLF
You arrive the minute the Admissions
Gates open and stay until the final putt
drops. You are our die-hard golf fans, and
we love the enthusiasm and energy you
FANATICS
bring to the tournament each day! Check
out these attractions to make the most of
your day at the golf course.
CHAMPIONS
CELEBRATION
PUBLIC Join us in Hallmark Autograph Alley on
Sunday, June 30 to help congratulate the
VIEWING 2019 Tournament Champion on her victory!
A grand celebration is sure to follow the 18th
DECKS
Green Ceremony, open to all tournament
spectators and fans.
Enjoy the view from one
of the four public viewing
decks on Holes 1, 9,
17 and 18 courtesy of
Kimberly-Clark. Make sure
you stop by the Hole 17
viewing deck in Hub479 –
it overlooks the Gatorade
Loudest Hole on Tour!
MERCY HITTING BAYS +
LONG PUTT CHALLENGE
Stop by the Mercy Hitting Bays and Long Putt Challenge located
near the fairways of Hole #9 and #18. Improve your game at the
hitting bays and challenge your friends to a competition at the Long
Putt Challenge for a chance to win prizes courtesy of Mercy.
TYSON CAFÉS
Need a bite to eat or a place to cool off while out at the Walmart NW
Arkansas Championship presented by P&G? Check out any of the onsite
Tyson Spectator Cafés for affordable meals ($3), snacks ($2) or drinks
($2/$1). Each Tyson Spectator Café features shaded public seating, so it’s
the perfect spot for a quick break from the action.
TOURNAMENT MAGAZINE 13FAN ATTRACTIONS
The #NWAChampionship is the perfect place
for families to enjoy golf together. Kids 17
FAMILIES
and under get in free to the tournament with
a ticketed adult, and the tournament offers a
variety of free children’s activities throughout
the week. Take a closer look at some of our
favorite family-friendly spots below!
WALMART AND ALWAYS LIVE #LIKEAGIRL STEAM CENTER
Returning in 2019, the Walmart and Always Live #LikeAGirl STEAM Center invites children of all ages to explore the areas of science, technology,
engineering, art and mathematics in a fun and engaging environment onsite at the tournament. Free and open to the public, the STEAM Center
features hands-on experiments, art projects and more!
THE FIRST
TEE JUNIOR
GOLF ZONE
PRESENTED
BY DOVE
Are your children wanting to
be a part of the action? Let
them test their putting skills
at the Junior Golf Zone on
HALLMARK Sunday from 11am – 3pm at
the 9th Hole Putting Green.
Kids (17 and under) are
AUTOGRAPH ALLEY invited to compete in putting
challenges with instruction
Make plans to meet your favorite players after their rounds
from local The First Tee
in Hallmark Autograph Alley. Pick up an Autograph Book,
coaches. All participants also
compliments of Hallmark, to start your collection of signatures.
receive a gift courtesy of
Hallmark Autograph Alley is located on the back patio of the
Unilever.
Pinnacle Clubhouse. Open to spectators of all ages!
14 TOURNAMENT MAGAZINEFAN ATTRACTIONS
THE There’s something for everyone at the
SOCIAL
#NWAChampionship – even if you’re not a golf fan! The
tournament is the place to be for your group of friends this
summer. Come call the Hogs on the Gatorade Loudest
Hole on Tour or sample the best local dishes at our onsite
SCENE
food festival. We’ve mapped out the ultimate tournament
experience for your friends at these spots below!
HUB479
Free and open to
the public, Hub479
is the largest viewing
deck onsite, offering
lounge-style seating,
interactive games
and a perfect view
for fans to enjoy the
Gatorade Loudest
Hole on Tour - #17.
Bring your friends
to experience the
#NWAChampionship
BITE ONSITE in this exciting
atmosphere!
Get a taste of #BITENWA at the #NWAChampionship’s onsite
food festival. Sample dishes from Local Lime, Oven & Tap, Levi’s
and more paired with your favorite brews and cocktails. Located
on the exciting Hole #17, this new addition to the tournament is
sure to be the “don’t-miss” spot of 2019!
THE CLUB
Enjoy an exclusive
hospitality experience at
the #NWAChampionship
with upgraded tickets to
The Club. The structure
overlooks the 16th green
and the 17th tee box,
showcasing the lively
atmosphere found only
on the Gatorade Loudest
Hole on Tour – #17. Daily
tickets are only $75, and
weekly tickets can be
purchased for $200. Food
and drinks are included.
TOURNAMENT MAGAZINE 15SPECTATOR INFORMATION
DAILY PAIRINGS GUIDE
Pick up a free Daily Pairings Guide to
find out when and where your favorite SPECTATOR PARKING
LPGA player will tee off. Daily Pairings #NWACHAMPIONSHIP PRO TIPS
Parking for general spectators is available
Guides include a course map and are west of I-49 off exit 82 for $5 beginning
available at the Main Entrance and in Tuesday, June 25 – Sunday, June 30 with
pairings boxes located throughout the
• Don’t forget to stop by the P&G Welcome Tent
proceeds benefiting local organizations. behind Hub479 to pick up a gift bag with over $90
course. Once on Pauline Whitaker Drive, follow worth of P&G products.
signage to the general parking area.
Spectators take a shuttle bus to the Main • Have a question or need directions? Chat with
Tournament Entrance and are not be one of our Volunteer Ambassadors stationed on
allowed to walk onto the premises. Hole #17. Look for volunteers wearing yellow vests
MERCY FIRST AID - they will be happy to help!
In the event of an injury or emergency,
contact the nearest volunteer hole • Visit Hallmark Autograph Alley behind the 18th
marshal who will be able to help you Hole to snag your favorite player’s autograph or
and direct you to First Aid. Mercy First snap a quick picture.
Aid is located in between Hole #9 and
SEVERE WEATHER
In the event of thunderstorms, lightning, • Straight Talk Charging Stations are located
Hole #18 Fairway. throughout the course if your cell phone battery
or other severe weather, “Weather
Warning” information will be displayed on gets low. Check out the course map to find the
the scoreboards around the golf course. charging station closest to you!
When these warnings appear, spectators
• Visit the Banana Boat Tent located on the
are advised to take precautions and seek
MILITARY APPRECIATION Driving Range to stock up on sunscreen for the
shelter even before play is suspended. If
All active, reserve and retired military summer heat. Sunscreen is free to spectators
the siren sounds suspending play, seek
members and their families receive free courtesy of Edgewell and Banana Boat.
shelter immediately.
admission to the tournament courtesy of
Walmart. Thank you for your service!
TOURNAMENT MAGAZINE 17SPECIAL EVENTS
#NWAChampionship Week’s signature
BITE NW
food festival returns to 8th Street Market in
Downtown Bentonville June 26-28. The three-
night event features unique experiences each
ARKANSAS
evening, inviting attendees to taste, sip, sample
and discover the best of the region and beyond.
Tickets for #BITENWA are only $30, and include
samples from 70+ local restaurants and brands.
JUNE 26 – 28 | 8TH STREET MARKET
The food festival benefits Brightwater Culinary
School and the NWA Food Bank.
BITE NW Arkansas culminates with the
BITE NW Arkansas kicks off with Explore the innovative personalities and
celebration of the local spirit of our
influences from across the world right cutting edge culinary culture of the region
community. Revel in the local, playful side
here in our own backyard. At #BITENWA’s at BITE | Discover. Reserve a seat at the
of the region while enjoying what’s hot
first night, attendees are challenged to Chef’s Table or savor top restaurants and
right here at home—from craft burgers
spark a new love for different cuisines brands at this world-class celebration of
to artisan snacks curated by your favorite
and flavors inspirited by Walmart’s own the creativity found right here in Northwest
local food makers and everything in
international reach. Take a bite beyond Arkansas. At BITE’s signature event, guests
between. Craft comes in many forms, and
our region and embrace the unique are invited to discover the unexpected.
it should all be appreciated.
flavors that define regions at BITE | Spark!
Featured Participants Include: Featured Participants Include: Featured Participants Include:
Con Quesos | Havana Tropical Grill Ella’s Table | Fork & Crust Big Orange | Crackerjack
Kalye Manila | Local Lime Fred’s Hickory Inn | Oven & Tap Hill City Popcorn
Louisiana Influence | Onyx Coffee Lab Pressroom | The Preacher’s Son Levi’s Gastrolounge & Lowbar
Southern Food Company The Hive | Wood Stone Craft Pizza Louise | Pedal Pops
Yeyo’s Mexican Grill Pure Joy Ice Cream | The Holler
TOURNAMENT MAGAZINE 19SPECIAL EVENTS
WALMART WOMEN’S Join over 400 of Northwest Arkansas’ executives
at the Walmart Women’s Empowerment Summit
EMPOWERMENT presented by Kimberly-Clark. The summit includes a
panel discussion with female leaders and a keynote
SUMMIT PRESENTED BY speaker, featuring a tribute to the past, a celebration
of the present and a focus on the future. The summit
KIMBERLY-CLARK is hosted by NWA’s Network of Executive Women
chapter, which celebrates 15 years of building strong
THURSDAY, JUNE 27 | JOHN Q. HAMMONS CENTER and confident leaders in Northwest Arkansas in 2019.
TOURNAMENT MAGAZINE 21SPECIAL EVENTS
5K Run on the tournament course and the famous Gatorade
Loudest Hole on Tour – #17! Join your family, your company and
@ THE
your community on Saturday, June 29 to run together for good at
the 5k @ the LPGA benefiting Mercy. The race includes a 5k, 1k
fun run and a Corporate Challenge for all skill levels. Companies
and offices are invited to compete for the titles of Fastest Office,
LPGA
Fittest Office and Leading Ladies. Early registration is only $20
and includes a performance t-shirt, daily #NWAChampionship
tournament ticket, race medal, breakfast after the race and more!
Join the fun, register at NWAChampionship.com/5k-at-the-lpga.
SATURDAY, JUNE 29 | WALMART AMP
TOURNAMENT MAGAZINE 2324 TOURNAMENT MAGAZINE
QUICK FACTS
facts & format
STARTING FIELD
ROUNDS 1 2 144
PLAYERS + TIES AFTER THE 36-HOLE CUT
ROUND 3 65
COURSE
Golf Channel TV Times:
STATS
PURSE
2
FRIDAY, JUNE 28
6,362 COURSE YARDAGE 12:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
SATURDAY, JUNE 29
71 PAR 3:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
21-UNDER SUNDAY, JUNE 30
3:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. MILLION
TOURNAMENT SCORING RECORD ($300,000 TO THE CHAMPION)
who makes up the field?
X
Current or Former
ARKANSAS SOLHEIM CUP
X > X MAJOR
RAZORBACKS Past Team Members CHAMPIONS
X
X
Winners on the
LPGA TOUR
Ì #NWACHAMPIONSHIP
Past Winners
X
3
Players
X
from
Players Ranked in SPONSOR’S DIFFERENT
TOP-50 in the World EXEMPTIONS COUNTRIES
TOURNAMENT MAGAZINE 25P&G became the title sponsor of the
tournament in 2008. Seon Hwa Lee
was named the first official winner
with a score of 15-under. The first ever
Women’s Day at the LPGA was hosted,
with around 50 guests in attendance.
The tournament was broadcast live on
CBS Network Television.
The tournament debuted in 2007 as the LPGA
NWA Championship presented by John Q. Jiyai Shin birdie the second playout hole,
Hammons. Amateur Razorback golfer Stacy beating out Angela Stanford and Sun Young
Lewis was named the unofficial winner of the Yoo for the #NWAChampionship title. This
event, which was shortened to 18 holes by year, the Malibu Party Deck was built for the
heavy rains. LPGA professional Natalie Gulbis first time on the 17th Green. Off the golf
hosted the first Pantene Beautiful Lengths hair course, the tournament hosted a Travis Tritt
donation event, with 10 donors in attendance. concert on Dickson Street in Fayetteville.
2007 2008 2009
2013 2014 2015
Fan favorite Stacy Lewis birdied the 18th Hole Na Yeon Choi eagled the 16th
to win the tournament officially for the first time. Hole in route to a victory over
The #NWAChampionship and Cancer Challenge Stacy Lewis. The Road to the
made a donation $100,000 to Arkansas Children’s #NWAChampionship program
Hospital. Off the golf course, a Dierks Bentley with the University of Arkansas
concert was hosted at the Walmart AMP in was formalized, guaranteeing a
conjunction with the LPGA event. sponsor’s exemption to a Razorback
golfer each year. The inaugural NW
Arkansas Food Festival was hosted
at the Walmart AMP on Thursday
and Friday of tournament week.
In addition, the 5k @ the LPGA
benefiting Mercy was launched, with
around 400 runners in attendance.
Inbee Park claimed the 2013 title. The
tournament rebranded the 17th Hole
at the “Loudest Hole on Tour” as the
stadium build around the hole continued
to grow. In its 7th year, the Pantene
Beautiful Lengths hair donation
program celebrated a milestone,
surpassing 1,000 total hair donors.
26 TOURNAMENT MAGAZINETOURNAMENT TIMELINE
Ai Miyazato captured a 1-shot victory
in 2012. Walmart celebrated its 50th
anniversary during the tournament. To
combat the extreme heat throughout the
week, Walmart donated free water for all
spectators. In partnership with the Walmart
Foundation, the #NWAChampionship
made a $350,000 donation to the
Goodwill POWER Program.
Walmart was named the title sponsor of
the event, and P&G became the presenting
sponsor. World #1 Yani Tseng won the
Yani Tseng claimed a 1-shot victory over #NWAChampionship for the second straight
Michelle Wie in 2010. The tournament year. In recognition of the 10th anniversary of
hosted a free Huey Lewis and the News 9/11, Congressman Steve Womack hosted a
concert on Dickson Street with over 10,000 special ceremony at the conclusion of play with a
guests in attendance. fly-over from military aircraft.
2010 2011 2012
2016 2017 2018
So Yeon Ryu captured the title and
ascended to #1 in the world rankings.
A new addition was made to Hole
#17 – Hub479 – offering free,
public viewing on the tournament’s
signature hole. BITE NW Arkansas,
the event’s food festival moved to
a new venue, 8th Street Market. In
addition, the tournament’s charitable
contributions surpassed $3 million in
total giving in 2017.
The #NWAChampionship celebrated
its 10 year anniversary in 2016. Lydia
19 year old Nasa Hataoka claimed her first
Ko claimed the 2016 title, and with
LPGA Tour win. The #NWAChampionship
the victory safely secured, excited fans
featured the strongest field in the event’s
on Hole #17 by wearing a hog hat
history with 46 of the top 50 players in the
down the fairway. The tournament’s
world. The tournament’s onsite kids center
charitable program, Pantene
was rebranded as the Walmart and P&G
Beautiful Lengths, surpassed 1,000
STEAM Center, with engaging activities
donors for the year, helping to make
in science, technology, engineering, art
wigs for cancer patients throughout
and math. At the conclusion of the season,
the region.
the #NWAChampionship was named the
Tournament of the Year on the LPGA Tour.
TOURNAMENT MAGAZINE 27like a girl
PLAYER PROFILES
GABYLOPEZ
@GabyLopezGolf @GabyLopezGolf @GabyLopezGolf
#NWAChampionship Record
Appearances: 6
Best Finish: 10 (2017)
Event Top 10’s: 1
Low Round: 63
College University of Arkansas | Height 5’6” | Birthday November 9, 1993 | Hometown Mexico City, Mexico |
Resides Mexico City, Mexico | Rookie Year 2016 | LPGA Tour Victories 1 | Career Earnings $1.25 Million
GABY
Beyond the Golf Course
FAVORITE FEMALE ATHLETE? FAVORITE MEMORY FROM THE
Lorena Ochoa #NWACHAMPIONSHIP?
Hole #17
LAST BOOK SHE READ?
Hole-in-One Nutrition SPIRIT ANIMAL?
Bull
JOB IF SHE WASN’T A GOLFER?
Tennis Player DREAM FOURSOME IN GOLF?
Tiger Woods, her granddad and Seve
WEIRDEST THING SHE’S EATEN WHILE Ballesteros
TRAVELING? Scorpions
TOURNAMENT MAGAZINE 2930 TOURNAMENT MAGAZINE
PLAYER PROFILES
STACYLEWIS @Stacy_Lewis
#NWAChampionship Record
Appearances: 12
Best Finish: WON (2014, 2007)
Event Top 10’s: 7
Low Round: 65
College University of Arkansas | Height 5’5” | Birthday February 16, 1985 | Hometown The Woodlands, TX
Resides Houston, TX | Rookie Year 2009 | LPGA Tour Victories 12 | Career Earnings: $12.6 Million
STACY
Beyond the Golf Course
FAVORITE FEMALE ATHLETE? WEIRDEST THING YOU’VE EATEN
Serena Williams WHILE TRAVELING ON TOUR?
Squid ink!
GUILTY PLEASURE TV SHOW?
This is Us FAVORITE MEMORY FROM THE
#NWACHAMPIONSHIP?
LAST BOOK YOU READ? The putts she made on Holes 15, 16,
The Happiest Baby on the Block and 18 the year she won!
JOB IF YOU WEREN’T A GOLFER? DREAM FOURSOME IN GOLF?
Coach or Accountant My dad and my husband
TOURNAMENT MAGAZINE 31PLAYER PROFILES
SOYEONRYU @1SoYeonRyu @1SoYeonRyu
#NWAChampionship Record
Appearances: 7
Best Finish: WON (2017)
Event Top 10’s: 4
Low Round: 61
Height 5’6” | Birthday June 29, 1990 | Hometown Seoul, Republic of Korea
Resides Dallas, TX | Rookie Year 2012 | LPGA Tour Victories 6 | Career Earnings: $10.03 Million
SO YEON
Beyond the Golf Course
GUILTY PLEASURE TV SHOW? FAVORITE #NWACHAMPIONSHIP
Sex & the City MEMORY?
Her Win in 2017
LAST BOOK SHE READ?
Hunger Games SPIRIT ANIMAL?
Horse
JOB IF SHE WASN’T A GOLFER?
Historian DREAM FOURSOME IN GOLF?
Lorena Ochoa, Annika Sorenstam & Karrie
WEIRDEST THING SHE’S EATEN WHILE Webb
TRAVELING? Frog
TOURNAMENT MAGAZINE 33PLAYER PROFILES
LEXITHOMPSON @Lexi @Lexi @Lexi
#NWAChampionship Record
Appearances: 2
Best Finish: T3 (2018)
Event Top 10’s: 1
Low Round: 64
Height 6’0” | Birthday February 10, 1995 | Hometown Coral Springs, FL
Resides Coral Springs, FL | Rookie Year 2012 | LPGA Tour Victories 10 | Career Earnings: $8.5 Million
LEXI
Beyond the Golf Course
FAVORITE FEMALE ATHLETE? FAVORITE #NWACHAMPIONSHIP
Lindsey Vonn MEMORY?
Hole #17 is the best!
GUILTY PLEASURE TV SHOW?
Law & Order SVU DREAM FOURSOME IN GOLF?
Tiger Woods, Will Ferrell and Justin
JOB IF SHE WASN’T A GOLFER? Timberlake
Veterinarian
WEIRDEST THING SHE’S EATEN
WHILE TRAVELING? Octopus
34 TOURNAMENT MAGAZINEPLAYER PROFILES
NASAHATAOKA @Nasagolf7355 @NasaHataoka
#NWAChampionship Record
Appearances: 2
Best Finish: WON (2018)
Event Top 10’s: 1
Low Round: 63
Height 5’2” | Birthday January 13, 1999 | Hometown Ibaraki, Japan
Resides Ibaraki, Japan | Rookie Year 2017 | LPGA Tour Victories 3 | Career Earnings: $1.8 Million
NASA
Beyond the Golf Course
FAVORITE FEMALE ATHLETE? FAVORITE #NWACHAMPIONSHIP
Ai Miyazato MEMORY? Her win and Hole #17
GUILTY PLEASURE TV SHOW? SPIRIT ANIMAL? Dog
Japanese Comedy Shows
DREAM FOURSOME IN GOLF?
JOB IF SHE WASN’T A GOLFER? Tiger Woods, Rory McIlroy and Jordan Spieth
Teacher
WEIRDEST THING SHE’S EATEN WHILE
TRAVELING? Vietnamese Pho
TOURNAMENT MAGAZINE 35PLAYER PROFILES
LYDIAKO @Lydsko
#NWAChampionship Record
Appearances: 6
Best Finish: WON (2016)
Event Top 10’s: 4
Low Round: 62
Height: 5’5” | Birthday April 24, 1997 | Hometown Auckland, New Zealand
Resides Orlando, FL | Rookie Year 2014 | LPGA Tour Victories 15 | Career Earnings: $9.8 Million
LYDIA
Beyond the Golf Course
FAVORITE FEMALE ATHLETE? WEIRDEST THING SHE’S EATEN WHILE
Se Ri Pak TRAVELING? Fish Eyeballs
GUILTY PLEASURE TV SHOW? FAVORITE #NWACHAMPIONSHIP
Great British Bake Off MEMORY? Wearing a Hog Hat on Hole #17
LAST BOOK SHE READ? SPIRIT ANIMAL? Panda
Still Me by Jojo Moyes
DREAM FOURSOME IN GOLF?
JOB IF SHE WASN’T A GOLFER? Chef Liam Neeson, Tom Hardy and Taron Egerton
TOURNAMENT MAGAZINE 37PLAYER PROFILES
MORGANPRESSEL @MPFoundation @MPressel @MPressel
#NWAChampionship Record
Appearances: 11
Best Finish: 2 (2016)
Event Top 10’s: 1
Low Round: 63
Height: 5’5” | Birthday May 23, 1988 | Hometown Boca Raton, FL
Resides Boca Raton, FL | Rookie Year 2006 | LPGA Tour Victories 2 | Career Earnings: $7.4 Million
MORGAN
Beyond the Golf Course
FAVORITE FEMALE ATHLETE? FAVORITE #NWACHAMPIONSHIP
Mia Hamm MEMORY? 2016 when she finished 2nd and
many friends came out to support her
GUILTY PLEASURE TV SHOW?
Family Feud SPIRIT ANIMAL?
Her dog, Zoe
LAST BOOK SHE READ?
Crazy Rich Asians Trilogy DREAM FOURSOME IN GOLF?
Husband (Andy), Sister (Madison) and her
JOB IF SHE WASN’T A GOLFER? caddie (Rock)
Fashion DesignerPLAYER PROFILES
ARIYAJUTANUGARN @Jutanugarn @Jutanugarn @Mayariya
#NWAChampionship Record
Appearances: 6
Best Finish: 4 (2016)
Event Top 10’s: 1
Low Round: 66
Height 5’7” | Birthday November 23, 1995 | Hometown Bangkok, Thailand
Resides Orlando, FL | Rookie Year 2015 | LPGA Tour Victories 10 | Career Earnings: $7.4 Million
ARIYA
Beyond the Golf Course
FAVORITE FEMALE ATHLETE? FAVORITE MEMORY FROM THE
Annika Sorenstam #NWACHAMPIONSHIP? Hole #17
LAST BOOK SHE READ? SPIRIT ANIMAL?
The Bible White Lion
JOB IF SHE WASN’T A GOLFER? DREAM FOURSOME IN GOLF?
Model Tiger Woods, Lorena Ochoa and Annika
Sorenstam
WEIRDEST THING SHE’S EATEN
WHILE TRAVELING? Turtle while in China
TOURNAMENT MAGAZINE 41EVENT FEATURE
DRIVING ON
TO CREATE
GREATER
OPPORTUNITIES
FOR WOMEN
You had a very successful career with Duke Energy,
spanning over 25 years before retiring in 2012. What do
you miss most about your time with Duke?
For me, nothing beats working shoulder-to-shoulder with
talented, committed people on issues that matter. Energy
Roberta Bowman joined the LPGA as the is so important to the quality of life and economy of our
world – and it has a special impact on women and girls in
organization’s Chief Brand and Communications
developing nations. In areas of our world that don’t have
Officer in October of 2018 after a serving as a access to electricity, women and girls spend hours on family
longtime communications and sustainability executive responsibilities – building fires, getting water and other critical
functions - and are often not able to go to school.
at Duke Energy in Charlotte, NC. Since joining the
LPGA, Bowman spearheaded the Tour’s new brand What professional achievement are you most proud of?
positioning campaign, #DriveOn which was unveiled Two answers: we built a world-class sustainability approach
that created real value for Duke Energy and unlocked
in March of 2019. This year, Roberta Bowman will employee engagement and innovation across departmental
join us during #NWAChampionship Week as one of lines. Things like driving waste out of our supply chain
and reducing our environmental footprint often required
the keynote speakers during the Walmart Women’s
cross-functional leadership. And that was a role that our
Empowerment Summit presented by Kimberly-Clark. sustainability team often played. On a personal level, Duke
Energy established an annual award in my name to recognize
leaders who personified the attributes of professionalism,
perseverance, passion, championship, and respect. The
nomination process is confidential and an independent jury
selects the winner. It’s been really interesting to meet the
award winners and see in them what others may have seen in
me.
Before you began working for the LPGA full time, you
were a board member. How did you first get involved
with the LPGA Tour?
I was the volunteer chair of the US Women’s Opens that were
played at Pine Needles in Southern Pines, NC, in 2001 and
2007. That was my first exposure to the caliber and quality of
women’s professional golf. And, to the challenges professional
golfers face in pursuing their dreams. At both USWOs, we
set new records for corporate hospitality and attendance,
and people remembered. One of my volunteer committee
members was Dana Rader, who later became President of
the LPGA’s Teaching and Club Professionals and a member
of the LPGA Board. She brought my name forward to the
Nominating Committee and I was elected to the Board in
August of 2011. Keep in mind that was a time when the LPGA
was still deeply challenged. And, it was just over a year into
the tenure of Commissioner Mike Whan.
TOURNAMENT MAGAZINE 43What intrigued you about taking your clearly aligned with what businesses leaders coverage. Five percent. We have a terrific
current role with the LPGA? care about. That’s where the LPGA’s 70-year broadcast partner in the Golf Channel for our
I had a terrific career at Duke Energy, retired on history of providing opportunities for women tour events, but we could benefit from more
my own terms and was very happy serving on and girls matters. Beyond offering a premiere network coverage of our tour. Our committed
corporate boards and doing some consulting. sports hospitality and branding opportunity, the fans know to find us on the Golf Channel.
I had no desire to work for another entity LPGA is a positive, visible example of diversity, Network coverage and other media exposure
full-time again. In fact, when Mike approached authenticity, leadership and opportunities for introduces more people – potential sponsors
me, I said “thanks, but no thanks”. Twice. But women. For many of our partners, investing in and fans – to our players. And once they find
sometimes, life gives you opportunities that the LPGA is more than a sports sponsorship. us, they generally like what they see!
you just can’t turn down. That’s how I came It’s a values statement.
to feel about the LPGA. After serving on This year, you and your team rolled out
the Board for six years and working closely What is your biggest dream for the LPGA the new #DriveOn campaign. What does
with Mike and the leadership team, I had Tour? #DriveOn mean to you?
a deep understanding and respect for the We’ve made great progress building a strong To me, #DriveOn celebrates that special will,
vision, energy, and commitment required to schedule and with visionary partners who motivation and internal energy that propels us
rebuild the LPGA into the strong organization support the tour and the values of diversity to pursue our dreams. #DriveOn isn’t just about
it is today. I think we are at a particularly and inclusion that we represent. But, there’s golf or sports and it isn’t just for women. We
important moment in time for all entities that more we can do. The more partners and wanted to acknowledge and shine a light on
are committed to providing opportunities for sponsors we attract, the more visibility and the motivating power of big dreams. And for
women. And, what I missed about Duke Energy earning opportunities for our members and the LPGA, #DriveOn sums it up perfectly.
is what I knew I would find at the LPGA: A tour professionals. The impact of larger purses
chance to be part of a terrific team doing work is felt most meaningfully deeper on the money What is the story behind #DriveOn? How
that matters. list. For example, in 2018, 114 PGA Tour pros did you come up with the concept?
made $1 million or more. For comparison, #114 Our creative partner in this work was Ogilvy
How did your former career prepare you for on the LPGA money list in 2018 made less than Worldwide. Interestingly, it was an all-female
your current role? $75,000. creative team. None of them were golfers. So
I spent my entire career in business – including they approached the LPGA branding process
a couple of decades as a “C-suite” leader. I If you could change anything about the with fresh eyes and a passion to learn. They had
understand what it’s like from “the other side of LPGA Tour, what would it be? a viewing party to watch The Founders Film,
the desk”. Companies receive lots of requests Our biggest challenge is exposure. Women’s about the 13 remarkable women who created
for support and those that get funded are sports get less than 5 percent of media the LPGA and literally drove from state to
44 TOURNAMENT MAGAZINEEVENT FEATURE
state to promote their sport. They started Who is your mentor/role model?
following the tour each week - learning How has mentorship impacted you
about our athletes and some of their professionally and personally?
stories of perseverance, heart-break and I’ve had a series of exceptional mentors
commitment. They saw the confidence that and sponsors over my career – people
girls who participate in LPGA/USGA Girls who see things in me I never saw in my
Golf develop. And so on. We had a “tissue myself. One of my most cherished mentors
session” last October where the team is Dr. Ruth Shaw, who I worked with at
presented different ideas and directions. Duke Energy and continue to stay in
All of them were excellent. But as soon as touch with today. She is a superb leader,
we heard, “Drive On” we knew it was what communicator, counselor and coach.
we were after: positive; differentiating;
relevant and useful to all of our LPGA What is your advice for female young
activities; and most importantly – true to professionals joining the corporate
who we are. world?
1) Build relationships and communications
What’s next for #DriveOn and the LPGA skills – they’ll be important at every stage
Tour? of career and your life. 2) When given an
We want to bring #DriveOn to life through opportunity or invitations, default to “yes”.
the stories of our members – tour pros, 3) Play golf.
teachers, girls and members of our
Amateur Golf Association. The launch What can individuals do to better
film, “This is for Every Girl”, has been champion and provide opportunities for
hugely successful in creating interest in women in the workplace?
and awareness of the LPGA. The players Very few things happen in life without
in that film were chosen because each has being intentional; progress generally
her own Drive On story – which we’ll be starts with a plan. Every company has its
sharing in the months ahead. And, I have own culture and challenges so the plan
a notebook full of ideas and suggestions needs to start with “what works here?” Last book you read?
coming from all over the LPGA. Some companies require a diverse slate
of candidates for every opportunity. It
Educated: A Memoir
Have you always been a golfer? How forces leaders to reach outside their natural
did you get introduced to the game? circles and meet candidates they may not Best/favorite advice
I grew up as a competitive swimmer and know. I’m also a big believer in employee
played club sports in high school and resource groups and the role they play in
you’ve received?
college. I swung a golf club for the first creating a sense of community, interpreting Everything I know about
time when I was in my 30s. The man I was the company culture and fostering new communications and marketing
dating (now my husband of 35 years), was relationships. I learned from an executive with
my first “teacher”. He loved the game and
he thought it was something we could do
Ralston-Purina: “Make sure they
together. My first times out at the driving have a dog”.
range I was just awful. And then I hit that
one good shot. . . Dream foursome in golf?
Peggy Kirk Bell, Louise Suggs and
Marilynn Smith
Favorite female athlete?
I can’t possibly pick one golfer, so as
a former swimmer, I’ll go with Dara
Torres.
Favorite travel destination?
New Zealand
How do you start your day?
Coffee, quiet time, and then
checking news and social media.
TOURNAMENT MAGAZINE 45LPGA FEATURE
RYU’S
RESET
Former World
No. 1 Seeks To Be
Nicer To Herself
BY STEVE EUBANKS | GLOBAL GOLF POST – MAY 3, 2019
You could sense the emotion, right below the surface, knocking,
but not quite welcome out in the open. When So Yeon Ryu, once
the No. 1 player in the world and a young woman who was one
wrong club away from perhaps being a three-time major champion,
answered questions prior to teeing of at Lake Merced Golf Club in
the LPGA Mediheal Championship outside San Francisco, the most
revealing thing she said came from the most innocuous question.
“Do you feel like your game’s coming together this season?” she
was asked.
It was the kind of question players get every week; the kind you
could answer in your sleep. Perfunctory and generally meaningless:
This was what sports journalists call a “conversation starter.” The
normal response is always: “Yeah, things are coming together well,”
followed by an anecdote about working on this or that club – good
enough for a note on the side of a main story, or a sound bite on the
evening recap. It’s a dance journalists and athletes have. We’ll pick a
song you know and you lead with the steps we’ve practiced.
But Ryu is different – deeper, thoughtful, more honest than most.
She is smarter than she is kind and she is abundantly kind. When
you look at the LPGA ad campaigns, old or new, there is one Korean
player in all of them: Ryu. She rarely says “no” and when she does
she later apologizes for it. So, a few locals in San Francisco were
surprised when she didn’t give the perfunctory answer to what
everyone knew was an average question.
TOURNAMENT MAGAZINE 47LPGA FEATURE
“To be honest, it’s been really frustrating,” she
said about her slower-than-normal start to 2019.
A missed cut and a couple of deep-in-the-pack
finishes were atypical for a woman who prides
herself on consistency.
“After I played the ANA Inspiration (where she
barely made the cut and finished T39) and then,
after having a week break before I played (the Lotte
Championship), I had a lot of time,” she said. “I was
thinking about like my game. But I was also thinking
about my life. I was thinking about my behavior.
Then I realized that I wasn’t really, fully confident.”
“Let’s say if I missed a shot, like my first reaction
was always, ‘How can I hit that kind of shot?’ Now
I’m looking to (say) I make a right decision. I did my
best. I just missed it. We’re human beings. … Just
don’t put yourself down. Try to focus on next shot.”
– So Yeon Ryu
You could see it in some of the early outings.
When her ball-striking was a little off, she would
actually yell at herself. Once she even slammed a
club, which is akin to most people breaking every
iron in their bag and throwing themselves prostrate
into the nearest lake.
“These days I’m really telling myself, ‘You’re
a great player,’ instead of saying, ‘What can I do
better?’ I’m just trying to be very polite to myself.”
The strategy worked. Ryu had seven birdies
TOURNAMENT MAGAZINE 49LPGA FEATURE
and two bogeys in the opening round of the Mediheal
tournament, posting a 67 that tied her for the lead.
But she wasn’t totally out of beat-yourself-up mode. A
bogey at the par-5 ninth (her final hole of the day) left
her with a sour taste. “That was frustrating,” she said.
But then she was back to being philosophical.
“It’s really tough, because when you’ve dedicated
yourself to make your game better and better and then
when you cannot really see the results right away, it can
be really easy to get frustrated. The thing is, it’s just golf.
It’s not (life and death). Nothing’s really guaranteed.
Even though you practice really hard, nothing’s
guaranteed. Well, sort of guaranteeing if you practice
hard, you have a chance to play better. But if you don’t
practice hard, it’s guaranteed that you cannot perform
really well.
“Let’s say if I missed a shot, like my first reaction
was always, ‘How can I hit that kind of shot?’ Now I’m
looking to (say) I make a right decision. I did my best. I
just missed it. We’re human beings. Sometimes things
are out of our control. Just don’t put yourself down. Try
to focus on next shot.”
She overcame the bone-chilling San Francisco
cold – weather that is not to Ryu’s liking – and a week
of sponsor obligations (Mediheal is one of her main
sponsors) to find herself atop the leaderboard for the
first time all year.
“I was searching for a swing problem that wasn’t
there,” she said. “Instead, I need to focus on what I
can do for the future. So when you keep doing that,
keep having negative thoughts and beating yourself
up, you start losing your confidence. You become a
more negative person instead of positive person. And I
always thought one of my strongest assets was positive
thinking. I think I was just a bit lost.”
After the first round, she assessed how she did. But
Ryu didn’t mention any shots.
“First of all, I think just my expectations where a little
high. When I missed a shot a little bit, or missed a putt a
little bit, I have been very harsh on myself, even though
I promised myself I wasn’t going to do that. But then I
was like, ‘You know what, I already promised myself that
I wasn’t going to be harsh on myself. Let’s just free up
enjoy it. I guess that mindset really helped me make a
lot of birdies.
“Behaving well on the golf course is really tough. But
that’s what I’m good at. I guess that’s what it means to
be a professional golfer. I just hope I can behave on the
golf course for the next three days.”
TOURNAMENT MAGAZINE 51Jr Golf Zone 52 TOURNAMENT MAGAZINE
RAZORBACK FEATURE
BREAKING
BARRIERS
Razorbacks at the
Augusta National
Women’s Amateur
PHOTOS COURTESY OF RAZORBACK ATHLETICS,
DAVID CANNON & KEVIN COX
What were your feelings when the Augusta National
Augusta National Golf Club, home of The Masters, Women’s Amateur was announced in 2018?
along with Champions Retreat, hosted 72 of the KAYLEE BENTON: When they announced the event, I was
top amateurs in the world in April for the inaugural pretty far out of getting a spot. I used that as my motivation
throughout the next year to get in. I originally didn’t make
Augusta National Women’s Amateur. The historic the field, but due to a withdrawal, I received a spot three days
event was the first women’s tournament held at before the event started.
DYLAN KIM: When they announced it, I was just really excited
the iconic course. Three Razorback golfers – Maria because what a cool opportunity it would be to play Augusta.
Fassi, Dylan Kim and Kaylee Benton – competed in I’d never played it before, but I thought I had a pretty good
the event in front of large crowds and legends of opportunity to make the field. That was extra motivation for
me to keep being consistent and keep playing well.
the game. Fassi starred in the final round, battling MARIA FASSI: Of course I was super excited when I found
against Jennifer Kupcho for an epic 18 holes. While out that we were going have the opportunity to compete
Fassi ultimately placed second in the event, she at Augusta and play against the best in the world! It was
definitely an extra goal to make the tournament field that we
captured the attention of the golfing world, not all had in the back of our head.
only for her fantastic golf, but also for her incredible
show of sportsmanship. The Razorback golfers How did you prepare for the ANWA?
made history as competitors at the ANWA, breaking DK: I think we were fortunate that our greens here at
barriers and inspiring young girls across the globe. Blessings are amazing, and they roll really pure and fast. In my
preparation, I was trying to practice a lot of putting because I
imagined the greens here would be similar to Augusta. On the
mental side, I tried to approach it like any other event because
I get excited to play any kind of tournament.
MF: Along with the Blessings, we played two golf courses
before going to Augusta that I think helped us a lot. These
courses had significant elevation changes and forced us to
move the ball both ways. For me, I focused more on preparing
mentally because it’s a big deal to be a part of the inaugural
event. I started working on the mental challenge as soon as I
found out that I was going to be playing.
KB: Since I received a spot in the field at the last minute, I had
to get my school work in order because I was going to miss an
extra week of class. After that, I started to mentally prepare. I
was was riding a high and had to get my head in the game!
TOURNAMENT MAGAZINE 53How was your experience at the event off the golf course?
What were some of your favorite parts?
KB: That was actually one of my favorite parts, besides playing
Augusta of course. Being in the the Clubhouse was such a neat
experience – I even touched Tiger Woods’ locker! That was
definitely a highlight! It was really cool to see what the PGA Tour
players get to experience at The Masters. We also had a dinner
in the Clubhouse with all of the participants, which was obviously
amazing.
DK: They put on such a nice event for us! We were all really
honored to get to be in the Clubhouse, and to meet the Chairmen
and all of the people who went into making the event possible.
There were several legends of the game at the ANWA –
Annika Sorenstam, Lorena Ochoa, Nancy Lopez and Se Ri Pak.
Were you able to spend any time with them?
MF: Actually when I finished my practice round they all happened
to have just arrived to the course, and they were driving around
saying hi to the players. Luckily enough, I have a pretty good
relationship with Annika and Nancy so it was really nice to see
them. They were as excited as we were to be a part of it. It was
really special to get to share that with them.
What were your first impressions of Champions Retreat and
Augusta National?
KB: I thought Champions Retreat was actually set up a little bit
harder than Augusta. Both were beautiful golf courses obviously.
Augusta was immaculate, but I thought Champions Retreat’s
greens were really nice. They were very fast, and they had some
tricky setups. When I went in and played the practice round I
had to change my game plan a little bit from normal. I felt more
pressure on the ball striking.
DK: I played Champions Retreat before when I was younger so
I was also really excited to go back because I did have some
memories of the holes.
MF: The first time we stepped on property we were going to
the Champion’s Dinner. I was wearing heels and we had to walk
through the grass, and I felt so bad. I was like ‘I’m literally just like
hurting the golf course.’ It wasn’t even part of the golf course but I
felt so bad. It was the purest grass I’ve ever seen.
What was it like on the first tee? Did you have any nerves?
MF: I was one of the first tee times at Champions Retreat, so
there was a lot of people there and of course cameras. It was
intimidating. But at the same time I really enjoyed all those nerves.
I was just trying to hit the fairway. After that, all of those nerves
went away and I was just enjoying myself out there.
KB: It’s pretty funny, I was more nervous hitting my first shot at
Augusta in the practice round than Champions Retreat. It was
just so exciting. But once I got that first tee shot out of the way at
Champions Retreat, it was just normal competition after that.
54 TOURNAMENT MAGAZINERAZORBACK FEATURE
Maria, what happened with the club mix up and how One of the goals of the ANWA and the #NWAChampionship is to
concerned were you? inspire young girls to dream big. What is your advice for young
girls starting off in golf?
MF: I had a 6:00am flight out of XNA, and when I came
to the course I didn’t even bother to look at the bag that MF: I was talking to a lot of the younger girls at Augusta and a lot of
I grabbed. When I was checking it in I just happened to them were saying how hard it was for them to practice because they
put it in a place where I had Kaylee’s name straight in my didn’t have any other girls to practice with. That’s the experience that
face. But I thought it was not a big deal because she was I had too. I never had a girl to play with and I think that at the end
going to arrive later that day and was going to bring my of the day – that made me better. The guys of course have different
clubs with her. But then her flight got delayed. As the skills than we do. So being able to compete and see that at a young
day went by she kept getting more delayed, and I was age, I think it helped me to develop some of those things myself. So
getting worried. But it ended up being great because I I would tell younger girls, it’s okay – we have to find other things that
was really tired from the trip and from school. It was nice make it fun, not just being with other girls. Find that little thing that
to just take it easy that day and recharge batteries for you absolutely love about golf, and just practice and stay patient. And
the week. have fun!
KB: Always be open to asking the people around you questions,
even if you don’t think that they’re better than you. The biggest
Tell us about your final round playing with Jennifer improvements I’ve made in my game are learning from other people.
Kupcho. When you really humble yourself to ask for help; that really helps. Also,
MF: Jennifer and I have become really good friends over I wish when I was younger people would have told me to work harder.
the last year. We played a few rounds together and after It’s important to understand the discipline it takes to play a sport
that we got really close. We both respect each other as and be patient. You’re not always going to get the results that you’re
players and as people so much, and we have a similar looking for. Stay patient, stay disciplined, work hard, and be open to
mindset. She wasn’t hoping for me to play bad and I help – then the sky’s the limit.
wasn’t hoping for her to play bad. We were just hoping DK: Have fun. When people set out wanting to be an amazing athlete
for each of us to pull a good number and then see who and they have this dream, I think that sometimes parents or other
was on top after that. I think that the fact that we both outside influences can make it not fun. For all the young girls out there,
understand that that’s what golf is supposed to be about just have fun and that will take you way farther than anything else.
really helped us. We were just out there having fun and
doing what we love the most in one of the best venues
there is. Honestly, I don’t think I would’ve wanted to play
that last round with anyone else but her. It was really fun.
She brings out the best in me, and I think I brought the
best in her as well. It was a really fun day!
What was the reaction like after the event ended?
MF: It was really rewarding to see the reaction that
people had, because they weren’t talking about golf
anymore. They were talking about what we were doing
as people. I think that’s way more valuable than the 67
that she shot or the 70 that I shot. In golf, we’re all going
to have good days and bad days. But it’s more about
how we act and how we represent ourselves out there.
It was really nice for everyone to recognize that and to
respect what we did. And hopefully we encouraged and
inspired a lot of people to start doing that, and hopefully
we can see a change in what women’s golf looks like.
What was it like for each of you to represent the
University of Arkansas on such a special stage at this
historic event?
DK: I felt really honored that we got to wear Razorback
gear in the event. I was really excited to represent the
school, Shauna and the team because they’ve done so
much for me. They’ve given me so much, so to be at
the inaugural ANWA and to get to have a presence for
the University of Arkansas there was really fun and really
special.
KB: One of the biggest blessings in my life is being here
and being an athlete at the University of Arkansas. So
anytime I can go out and represent the University and
give a little bit back to what they’ve given me is just such
an honor. We were one of the few teams that had three
players there. That really says a lot about our program.
That made me proud in itself – not just the fact that I was
there, but that I had two amazing teammates there. And
Maria getting second place, really made me excited. It
made me even more excited to be a Razorback.
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