Thursday, July 09, 2009

Women's U.S. Open Starts Today

Today is the first round of the US Women's Open. Unfortunately because of the existing qualifying process, both Natalie Gulbis and Michelle Wie won't be playing in it. They're two of the most popular women in the LPGA, but are not on the course this weekend.

This week's tournament is being played on the Old Course of Saucon Valley Country Club in Bethlehem, PA. I played there last year with the Lehigh University's women's golf coach when my niece was considering attending Lehigh. It's a beautiful traditional golf course with ties to Bethlehem Steel. Its founder started Saucon Valley and it's a sad to see the empty high rise of the former company.

Check out the Women's Open this weekend, especially during some tumultuous times at the LPGA. Several top players sent a letter to the LPGA asking that Commissioner Carolyn Bivens resign. Commissioner Bivens and the LPGA are discussing a buyout of her two years remaining on her contract. She made few friends with questionable edits involving the press, long-time sponsors of the LPGA, and Korean players. With the economy and loss of additional tournaments, the top players decided a change was needed.

Here's the t.v. schedule:

Today and tomorrow: ESPN 2-6 p.m. ET
Weekend: NBC 3-6 p.m. ET

Enjoy!

1 comment:

Golf Equipment said...

Ochoa said the players want a more active role in moving the LPGA Tour ahead.
When the golf does start, players will be faced with a Saucon Valley course that is hosting its sixth USGA event and first Women’s Open.