U.S. Women's Amateur begins Tuesday at The Honors Course
The 126th U.S. Women's Amateur begins Tuesday at The Honors Course in Ooltewah, Tennessee, running through Sunday. The event is taking place at the course for the first time and features start date changes, with quarterfinals and semifinals on Saturday and a 36-hole championship on Sunday. The field includes top amateur talent from around the world, with Curtis Cup team members and highly ranked players competing for the title.
The Honors Course, hosting its first U.S. Women's Amateur, plays at 6,539 yards with a par of 72. The competition shifts to a Tuesday start, with the 36-hole final scheduled for Sunday. Defending champion Megha Ganne claimed last year's title at Bandon Dunes.
The 156-player field includes 116 Americans and competitors from 16 nations. Ages span from 14-year-old Maggie Jiayi Ma to 64-year-old Sue Wooster, with an average age of 19.9. Several recent USGA champions, including Rianne Malixi and Clairey Lin, are also in the mix.
This championship could enhance the visibility of women's amateur golf, potentially inspiring younger players to pursue the sport. The local Tennessee community may see economic benefits from hosting the event. Additionally, the revised weekend schedule might attract a broader television audience, possibly increasing sponsorship interest in women's golf.