Year: 2024

Leaderboard packed at Iowa Junior, Girls’ Junior Amateur

June 18, 20240 commentsChampionships, Girls' Junior Amateur, Iowa Junior

Coldwater Golf Links, located in Ames, is home of the 2024 Iowa Junior Amateur; and day one was one for the books. Yet the heat and wind did not hinder some of the players’ scores.

In the Boys’ Division, Axten Miller, from Arthur, fought through the conditions and carded an opening round of 69 (-2). There are three tied for second shooting 70 (-1) players that include Cade Sunde, West Des Moines, Leo Fiscus, Davenport and Burlington’s Tomas Rascon.

In the Girls’ Division both carding a 70 (-1), were Eden Lohrbach, of Ames and Jane Peterson, of Cedar Rapids, stand in a tie for first. Ainsley Wilson, of Iowa City, stands in solo third carding an even par 71.

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Smith’s win Father-Son title, Peters’ dominate once again

June 17, 20240 commentsChampionships, Father-Son / Parent-Child

No tournament compares to the Father-Son and Parent-Child tournament held at Jester Park Golf Course in Granger.

Individuals may recognize the last name Smith, this time the father-son duo got it done. In the Father-Son Open Division Steve and Grant Smith shot an impressive 69 (-3) to stay clear of the rest of the runners-up by two. There was a three way tie of runner-up all shooting 71 (-1) consisting of Brian and Burke Pitz, Brian and Isaac Rodenberg, and Luke and Monte Meyer.

West Des Moines’ Ben and Tate Pettitt claim the victory of Father-Son Young Adult Division shooting a 75 (+3). Runner up was Jackson and Scott Anderson from Ottumwa shooting a 77 (+5). Followed by Jameson and Sean Honts of West Des Moines shooting 78 (+6).

Ben and Maura Peters, from Bettendorf, closed out a four-peat and fifth title overall, winning the Parent-Child Open Division shooting an impressive 68 (-4). Not too far behind were runner-ups Hannah and Nate Pettitt from Urbandale shooting 70 (-2). There was a tie for third at 76 (+4) between James and Roni Hook from Griswold and Mike and Taylor Phillips from New London. 

Jester Parks Par 3 Course saw a lot of action on Saturday. In the Father-Son Junior Division of eight and under David and Emmett Combs from West Des Moines claimed the title shooting 63 (+9). Runner-ups also out of West Des Moines were Oiliver and Hayden Zeidler shooting 67 (+13). From Cedar Falls Stacey and Luka Dunbar claimed third shooting 72 (+18).

In the Father-Son 9 & 10 Division Aaron and Beckham O’Brien from Ottumwa claimed the victory by one shot, shooting 65 (+11). Runner-ups were David and Carter Combs from West Des Moines shooting 66 (+12). In third was Griffin and Jason Sparks from Waukee shooting 67 (+13). 

From Urbandale Eric and Reese Buntenbach shot an even 70 (+16) to claim the title for the Parent-Child 8 & Under Division. In Runner-Up was Brookly and Wade Pettitt from Waukee. From Clive Ben and Blythe Hall claimed third shooting 79 (+25).

Sweeping the competition from West Des Moines, Ben and Hayden Pettitt claimed the title of the Parent-Child 9 & 10 Division shooting 59 (+5). Runner-Ups out of Cedar Rapids shooting 66 (+12). Coming in third from Ames was Sarah and Jack Van Hauen shooting 76 (+22).

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Honner blitzes field at Carroll Amateur

June 17, 20240 commentsChampionships

In the 2024 Carroll Amateur there never was a dull moment.

Coming off from just being medalist in the U.S. Amateur local qualifying at Glen Oaks earlier in the week, Luke Honner did it again. From Sioux Fall, Honner posted all three rounds under par carding two 68s (-2) and an impressive 64 (-6) in the final round. Honner never took his foot off the gas, he even carded an ace on the par 3 10th hole.

There was a tie for runner up at +3 between Spencer Clatt of Gilbert and Bennett Burger from Lake Mills. Clatt carded rounds of 71 (+1), 75 (+5), and an impressive 67 (-3); meanwhile Burger carded rounds of 69 (-1), 70 (even par), and 74 (+4).

In the Senior Division after the first day there was a tie for first between Ron Perterson out of Urbandale and Jeff Panek from Johnston at 74 (+4). In solo third was Jay Gregory from Lineville just one shot back shooting 75 (+5). The second day Peterson played steady all day shooting 72 (+2), claiming the title for Seniors, leaving a tie for runner-up between Panek carding a 75 (+5) and Gregory shooting a 74 (+4).

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Seven advance from U.S. Amateur Local Qualifier at Glen Oaks CC

June 14, 20240 commentsUSGA, USGA Qualifiers

Glen Oaks Country Club, in West Des Moines, was the host of this year’s U.S. Amateur Local Qualifying and it proved to be a challenge. As the day went on the wind picked up and firmed up the course that much more. Luke Honner (right), this year’s medalist, shooting a well deserved 67 (-4) and one of seven qualifiers into Final Qualifying on the day, demonstrated having patience and hitting fairways was key to success in today’s round.

“Off the tee was really well, again no bogeys, and just stayed patient,” Honner said following his round. “I putted solid, but again just making minimal mistakes.”

Charlie Zielinski, who shot a very respectable 68 (-3), proved finding the fairways as often as possible was the key to success on the day.

“Hitting the fairway does help a lot, I hit seven fairways today,” Zielinski said. “I was looking through my stats at the end of the round. Even if I was in the rough, I was never really out of position. But, as the day went on and the wind picked up, being in the fairway was definitely a premium.”

Also qualifying, with never giving up even after a slow start, was Christopher Atkinson shooting 69 (-2).

“Got off to a slow start, I hit it right off 10 and made a good bogey after getting up and down,” Atkinson said. “I collected myself after the first few holes and started playing solid. Hitting fairways is key out here, I do not need a driver out here a lot. I started hitting a lot of two irons down the middle, I was able to hit it on the green and make some putts which lead to birdies.”

Also qualifying in at 70 (-1) was Connor McCall, Radley Mauney, Reed Malleck and Dennis Bull.

In a thrilling five hole playoff Grant Greazel secured the first alternate spot and Wade Pettitt was awarded the second alternate spot.  

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Race to the finish at 14th IGA Women’s Four-Ball

June 12, 20240 commentsChampionships, IGA Women's Four-Ball

From left – Michelle Klein, Laura Leszczynski, Ximena Benites and Maura Peters.

The final round of the 14th Women’s Four-Ball Championship was a race to the finish in the Championship Flight with Maura Peters and Ximena Benites coming out victorious. After Peters and Benites opened with an even par round of 71, the two of them took that as a learning experience before going into round two. 

“Yesterday we learned a lot about the golf course, where you can and can not hit the ball, the greens are tricky, and there are definitely sides of the hole where you do not want to be on,” Peters said. 

Making notes of all that, Peters and Benites capitalized on their mistakes and tallied up an impressive seven birdies shooting 64 (-7) on the day. Coming in runner-up Kaitlyn Hanna and Shannyn Volger shooting two of rounds 69 (-2) and 70 (-1). Leaving third to Erika Holmberg and Tatum Depuydt posting a pair of rounds of 69 (-2) and an even par 71.

In the First Flight Julianna Burkholder and Kendra Henningsen walked away with the win of rounds 74 (+3) and 70 (-1). Coming in second was Fiona Watson and Tish Boothe with rounds of 75 (+4) and 72 (+1). There was a tie for third between the sides of Erin Schaffer/Leanne Smith with rounds of 76 (+5) and 74 (+3) and Ava Lohrbach/Eden Lohrbach shooting 75 (+4) both days.

In the Second Flight the Delong sisters (Meghan and Rebecca) battled their way back to secure the win shooting 78 (+7) and 73 (+2). Runner-up was Courtney Hany and Jennie Jackson going 78 (+7) and 77 (+6). Coming in a clean third was Amy Haldeman and Lynn Mawe with rounds of 79 (+9) and 83 (+12).

Within the Championship Net Division Kelly Nelson and Lindsay Burry combined for a two day net score of -13. Coming in runner-up was Molly Ratchford and Natalie Henson with (-9), and there was a tie for third at -8.

In the Senior Division, defending champions Laura Leszczynski and Michelle Klein snacked their way to claim yet another victory. 

“We pre-planned our snacks better, loaded up with caffeine, and Advil as needed; as it was critical on the day,” said Leszczynski. 

After opening with 75 (+4) Leszczynski/Klein did not let up, shooting a 73 (+2). 

“There was not a lot of strategy but there was a lot of energy between the two of us,” Klein said. “We did not take our foot off the pedal at all.” 

There was a tie for runner-up between Carroll Dethrow/Janece Schwartzkopf shooting 77 (+6) and 74 (+3) along with Margene Grady/Rosalie Kubesheski finishing the two days with 76 (+5) and 75 (+4).

In the First FlightCarolyn Flynn/Mary Howell would come out to win with scores of 83 (+12) and 79 (+8). Runner-up was Jackie Warrick/Shirly Rochelle with scores of 84 (+13) and (+10). In third was Kelly Grimes/Sue Harmon shooting 83 (+12) both days.

Holding onto the Senior Net Division Linda McCullum and Sherry Schafer won with a two day net score of -13. Coming in runner-up was Gaylene Hammer and Jan Sewright with (-9), and in third was Ila Gilbert and Janis Owens at (-4).  

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Featuring 100 Women: Major Success

June 12, 20240 commentsUncategorized

Iowa Success on the Biggest Stage

In the heart of America, amidst the rolling fields of Iowa, lies a rich tapestry of female golfing talent that has left an unforgettable mark on the prestigious greens of the LPGA Major championships. From the tranquil landscapes of the Hawkeye State emerges a legacy of resilience, skill, and sheer determination embodied by its formidable women golfers. These trailblazers have not only graced the fairways of the LPGA Tour but have etched their names in history, capturing Major championships and showcasing the unwavering spirit of Iowa’s golfing prowess on the sport’s grandest stages.

Originally hailing from Eldridge, Beth Bader embarked on her golfing journey at the early age of 12, a path she pursued with unwavering commitment. Throughout her formative years in Iowa, Bader showcased her exceptional talent, clinching victories at notable events such as the 1991 Iowa Junior Open, 1991 Des Moines Open, and 1992 Waterloo Junior Open, laying the foundation for her remarkable career. Additionally, she left an unforgettable mark on the local golfing scene with triumphs like the 1995 Quad City Women’s Amateur title and a commendable runner-up placement at the Iowa Women’s Amateur in 1992.

Transitioning seamlessly to collegiate golf, Bader excelled as a vital member and later captain of the Iowa State University women’s golf team, earning accolades such as the medalist at the 1993 Northern Illinois Huskie Invitational and the team’s MVP in the 1993-94 season. Notably, her proficiency on the course earned her the distinction of being a two-time All-Big Eight honoree, a feat unmatched by any other ISU player. In recognition of her exceptional contributions, Bader was honored as ISU’s Female Athlete of the Year in 1996, a testament to her permanent impact on the university’s record books. Her collegiate career was characterized by consistency, as evidenced by her remarkable streak of never being out of the starting lineup in 42 consecutive tournaments. Amassing a record-breaking 24 Top 100 finishes, Bader cemented her status as one of ISU’s finest golfers, leaving behind a legacy that remains unmatched.

Post-college, Bader transitioned to the Futures Tour, where she continued to shine, eventually earning her coveted spot on the LPGA Tour in 2000, representing Iowa with pride at the pinnacle of women’s golf. Over her illustrious decade-long tenure on the LPGA Tour, Bader amassed career earnings exceeding $1 million, competing in 26 Major championships and leaving a lasting mark on the sport. Notably, her crowning achievement came with a tie for fourth at the 2007 LPGA Corning Classic, a testament to her skill and tenacity on the grandest stages of women’s golf.

Judy Kimball Simon possessed an innate talent for golf, evident from her earliest days in the sport. Her introduction to competitive golf occurred in 1954 at the Iowa Women’s Amateur held at Sunnyside Country Club in Waterloo, where despite being a newcomer, she demonstrated promise. Although her debut saw her fall short of match play after shooting 99, Kimball Simon persisted. The following year, she narrowly missed out on advancing at the Davenport Country Club but claimed victory in the long-drive contest with an impressive 275-yard drive, showcasing her growing skills. By 1956, at just 18 years old, Kimball Simon reached the semifinals at the Clinton Country Club, making her the oldest contender among the Final Four. Despite her young age, she faced challenging opponents like Sharon Fladoos of Dubuque, who ultimately bested her in the semifinals. The tournament format shifted to medal play in 1957, a change that saw Kimball Simon secure a commendable third-place finish at the Fort Dodge Country Club.

However, it was in 1958 that Kimball Simon clinched her first Iowa Women’s Amateur title at the Cedar Rapids Country Club, showcasing her dominance with a five-shot lead over her closest rivals. That same year, she distinguished herself as the low amateur and secured an impressive 18th place overall at the Waterloo Women’s Open, a notable achievement considering its status as an LPGA Tour stop. Although her victory in 1958 marked her sole triumph in the Iowa Women’s Amateur, Kimball Simon remained an intimidating presence in subsequent tournaments, finishing fourth in 1959 and third in 1960. Despite contemplating a shift towards kinesiology studies at Texas, Kimball Simon’s career trajectory took an unexpected turn when she secured an endorsement deal with Wilson Sporting Goods alongside golf legends Betsy Rawls, Patty Berg, and Mickey Wright. Transitioning to professional status in 1960, Kimball Simon made an immediate impact, becoming the first LPGA rookie in a decade to secure victory at the American Women’s Open in Minneapolis in 1961.

Her breakthrough victory marked the beginning of a stellar professional career, highlighted by historic achievements such as becoming the first and only Iowan to win a women’s major championship at the LPGA Championship in 1962. Her stellar performance at Stardust Country Club in Las Vegas, where she finished four shots ahead of the field, cemented her status as a golfing icon. Kimball Simon’s accomplishments continued to mount, including two team victories and a final individual triumph at the O’Sullivan Ladies Open in 1971. Throughout her illustrious 18-season career, she secured nine runner-up finishes, with two occurring in major championships, underscoring her consistent excellence on the LPGA Tour. Remarkably, she remained within the Top 20 of the LPGA money list every year from 1961 to 1968, achieving a career-best seventh-place finish in 1967.

Winning the Iowa Women’s Amateur is no easy feat. Golfers are tested on every hole, on every shot. Many champions can pinpoint a shot that either shifted momentum in their favor or kept their momentum going. For Pennapa Pulsawath, it was a chip in for birdie on the 16th hole at Bos Landen Golf. Leading by three heading into the final round of the 2008 Iowa Women’s Amateur, all eyes were on Pulsawath. She had posted 74-70 and had the entire field looking up , wondering if they had a chance. Kendra Hanson, however, had different plans. Just a third of the way into the final round, Pulsawath watched as her lead had all but vanished and the two were tied at the top.

Heading into the back nine, the back and forth battle continued with neither willing to surrender the title. Pulsawath, chasing her first Iowa Women’s Amateur, had quite the battle ahead of her as Hanson, the defending champion, was in a familiar position. Entering the final stretch, the pair made their way to the par-3 16th. Pulsawath had a narrow one-shot lead over Hanson and, more importantly, the honor on the tee. A wayward iron from Pulsawath opened the door for Hanson as she calmly stuck her approach to seven feet and a chance to tie the lead. With Hanson thinking there would be a two shot swing in her favor, Pulsawath delivered her championship highlight, chipping in for birdie. Hanson failed to convert on the short birdie putt and the championship was all but finished. Pulsawath cruised through 17 and 18 on the way to her lone Iowa Women’s Amateur victory. Ironically, she later recounted that her putting wasn’t as good in the final round. Good thing her short game remained sharp as ever. Following her graduation from Iowa State, Pulsawath pursued a career in professional golf. She currently holds status on the Ladies Asian Golf Tour.

Next Week on Women’s Wednesday…

Explore the remarkable career of Ann Casey Johnstone and how her family plans to give back to the game’s next generation.

Two Teams Tied for the Lead at IGA Women’s Four-Ball

June 11, 20240 commentsUncategorized

At the 14th IGA Women’s Four-Ball Championship held at Glen Oaks Country Club in West Des Moines, the wind did not hinder a few teams. In the Championship Division, the pairs of Kaitlyn Hanna/Shannyn Vogler and Erika Holmberg/Tatum Depuydt achieved a commendable 69 (-2) score. Following closely behind is a four-way tie for third place, all at an even par of 71.

Within the Championship Net Division, the teams of Lauren Brown/Rylin Davidson and Molly Ratchford/Natalie Henson each achieved a net score of 65 (-6). Kelly Nelson and Lindsay Burry hold the third spot individually with a net score of 66 (-5).

The Senior Division is wide open for any team to emerge victorious. Leading the pack are the defending champions Laura Leszczynski and Michelle Klein with a solid 75 (+4). Close on their heels are Margene Grady and Rosalie Kubesheski, who shot a 76 (+5), followed by Carroll Dethrow and Janece Schwartzkopf in third place with a score of 77 (+6).

Linda McCullum and Sherry Schafer are currently leading the Senior Net Division with an impressive score of 64 (-7). Tied for second place are three teams, all with a net score of 68 (-3).

Tune in tomorrow starting at 7:30 a.m. for the final round.

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IGA welcomes four P.J. Boatwright Interns for 2024

June 10, 20240 commentsNews

From left – Max Nauman, Paige Hoffman, Charlie Gaer and Molly Baker.

New IGA interns ready for a summer of experience and fun  

Here at the new Golf House Iowa both Iowa Golf Association staff members and P.J. Boatwright interns are busy preparing for another busy schedule of tournaments. With the help of the P.J. Boatwright Interns the IGA is able to grow, improve, and excel each year. Each one of the IGA staff members know how vital these interns are to the success of the program because they were once P.J. Boatwright interns themselves. The IGA offers three internship positions: Communication and Marketing, Handicapping and Course Rating, and Championship Administration. In addition to the interns specific duties, these individuals will get first hand experience into the golf administration – such as day-to-day office duties, tournament prep, and a sense of responsibility.

Charlie Gaer, a Des Moines native is this year’s Communication and Marketing Intern. Charlie recently graduated from Central College with a degree in Communications and a minor in Business Management. He was also on Central’s Men’s Golf Team.

“Growing up in a family of golfers I have always loved the sport and wanted to pursue a career within the golf industry,” Gaer said. “I am excited to have the opportunity to learn and grow during my time at the IGA.”

Clint Brown, Director of Communication and Marketing commented he’s excited to get to work with Charlie this summer.

“I am looking forward to working with Charlie this summer,” Brown said. “We’ll be busy, but I want to make sure he has a great experience. I was an intern in his shoes once and it’s definitely an invaluable learning experience. Golf is still a game, but I know he’ll take a lot of pride in each task we give him.”

Max Nauman is from Peosta, and is this year’s Handicapping and Course Rating Intern. Max just finished up his junior year at Iowa State University, where he is majoring in Public Relations and minoring in Leadership Studies. Max played two years of golf at Hawkeye Community College before transferring to Iowa State University.

“Growing up my dad was the one who introduced me to the game of golf,” Nauman. “I have always loved competing against my others in my junior days and at the collegiate level. I am beyond excited for this opportunity with the IGA and am ready for the challenge ahead.” 

Nate McCoy, Director of Handicapping & Course Rating commented on having Max and the other interns a part of the IGA staff.

“I am really excited to work with Max and the other interns this season,” McCoy said. “I was an intern myself so I know what they are going through. I think Max will get a good dose of Course Rating, but will also get to experience a number of other things as well. As a staff we wear a lot of different hats, so having an extra hand is very helpful. I am looking forward to the summer season.”

Molly Baker, of Huntley, Illinois, joins the IGA staff this summer as the Championship Administration Intern. Molly just finished her junior year at Coe College, where she is majoring in Elementary Education and continues to play golf for Coe.

“I am wanting to pursue a career in the golf industry,” Baker said. “I am enthusiastic about the opportunities and connections I will have while interning for the Iowa Golf Association”. 

Karli Kerrigan, the Director of Competitions is excited to have Molly Interning at the IGA.

“I am looking forward to working with Molly and watching her grow in her golf administration career,” Kerrigan said. “She brings a lot of great experience to the IGA and I know she will be a great fit for us this summer.”

Paige Hoffman, of West Des Moines, returns to the IGA for her second year to continue working as the Golf House Intern. A well-known and talented golfer, Paige just finished up her junior year and collegiate golf career at Northwest Missouri State University. Paige is majoring in Data Science.

“I am excited to come back for my second year interning,” Hoffman said. “I am especially looking forward to working in the new Golf House Iowa and playing in the 100th Iowa Women’s Amateur.”

Katelynn Hogenson, Chief Operating Officer looks forward to having Paige return as an intern.

“We’re thrilled to have Paige back for another summer,” Hogenson said. “Her experience and enthusiasm are truly invaluable as she steps into a new internship role focusing on the use and development of Golf House Iowa. Not to mention, she aced the Rules of Golf exam, earning Expert Level certificate. We’re excited to have her skills showcased at our upcoming championships.”

Two Interns Participate in P.J. Boatwright Intern Summit

The P.J. Boatwright Intern Summit was held at the USGA campus in Liberty Corner, New Jersey, in May. A packed couple days was ahead for Molly and Max as the two of them would network, listen to informational skill presentations, and have fun competitions.

After arrival, Max and Molly had dinner with other Allied Golf Associations around the country and heard from a couple speakers before heading back to the hotel.

Throughout the next couple of days Max and Molly attended seminars such as championship administration, rules, handicapping and course ratings, and history regarding the USGA. Former P.J. Boatwright interns spoke to provide wisdom and insight into their current role within the USGA.

“It was an amazing experience to learn more about the USGA from a different perspective,” Nauman said. “I really enjoyed getting to meet other interns and staff. I will take the information I learned at the summit and apply it to interning with the IGA this summer.”

Molly said the experience was nothing short of amazing.

“It was great to learn about the USGA and what the organization does to further the game of golf. It will be exciting to what we learned play out in the field,” Baker said.

Max’s favorite part was connecting with the GHIN staff. 

“It was an enriching experience talking with staff from the USGA,” he said.

Molly’s highlights from the week included the overall experience at the USGA and all the food. 

“Stepping into the USGA was fascinating and all the food was delicious,” she said with a grin.

Brown holds on, wins 46th Iowa Senior Amateur

June 6, 20240 commentsChampionships, Iowa Senior Amateur

In the end it was enough.

Jon Brown (right), who posted a 217 (+1) total, held on for victory at the 46th Iowa Senior Amateur hosted by Bent Tree Golf Course. With an opening rough 65, Brown admitted that was the difference in Council Bluffs.

“The first day everything went right,” Brown said. “I didn’t make many mistakes the next day (round two), but today, it’s hard playing with the lead. The conditions were really challenging (today). I missed some short putts early and the set the tone.”

After opening with a 39 (+3) on the front nine in the final round, Brown knew he needed to get to work as Joe Palmer and Chris Kramer, who would tie for runner-up when the dust had settled, gave chase.

“I found myself just trying to hang on,” Brown said. “I didn’t look at the leaderboard until the 18th tee. I knew what my group was doing, but not really anyone else. I just tried to do my best. Today was just one bad break after another and nothing was going right. I knew I needed to buckle down. Today with the wind it was tougher to drive the ball. The course felt tighter than the first two days. If you get out of position, with the greens being so fast, you all of sudden you have a downhill chip running away from you.”

Driving the ball and finding the fairways at the links-style layout of Bent Tree GC was the key to success according to Brown.

“I was able to put myself in positions to be aggressive and my speed with the putter was good,” Brown said. “Today, I had 5-6 footers that you had to be careful with or you could have 6-7 feet coming back. It was one of those days (today), it’s a little bit embarrassing shooting 79 to win, but I am thrilled I had a cushion. Chris Kramer played well today and I’ve had some many battles with Joe. I was never comfortable until I hit the 18th green.”

In the Super Senior Division Dave Gaer chased down the lead thanks to a final round 73 (+1) that included four birdies, good enough for a 222 total and a one shot win over Dave Waugh. Gaer commented that Bent Tree GC was a layout that you had to pick you spots of when to be aggressive and when to throttle down.

“This golf course you can’t force it,” Gaer said. “I got off to a good start today, that helped. I hit a lot of greens on the back nine. The wind blew steady all day and this is a good golf course. You have to use all your clubs in the bag. You get so many more chances here if you drive the ball well. It was a lot of fun (this week).

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Smith wins 61st Women’s Forever 39 Match Play

June 5, 20240 commentsChampionships, Forever 39 Match Play

Leanne Smith (Indianola) secured the victory at the 61st Iowa Women’s Forever Match Play Championship at Ankeny Golf & Country Club. Some may recall Smith also won the 59th Women’s Iowa Forever 39 Match Play at Hillcrest Golf & Country Club in 2021. After shooting 38 (+2) in the qualifying round, Smith was seeded fifth. Smith was determined to capitalize on the format of match play.

“I just feel like you’re always in it, whether you really have it all together. Something may happen, you have your own fate in your hand,” Smith said.

In the her first match Smith played against No. 4 seed Carroll Dethrow (Nevada). The two of them both played solidly; but Smith would win 1 up. In round two’s match Smith was up against No. 8 eight seed Kelly Nelson (Waterloo) who defeated defending champion and No. 1 seed Fiona Watson (Des Moines) in round one. Smith would end up defeating Watson 1 up. In the final match Smith went against No. 3 seed Geri Huser (Altoona), Smith would go on to defeat Huser 2&1 to claim the overall title. 

In the first flight No. 3 seeded Rosalie Kubesheski (Dubuque) secured the victory. Along the way Kubesheski defeated No. 6 seed Nicol Jones (Ankeny) 3&1, No. 2 seed Mary Howell (Ames) 1up, and No. 4 seed Erin Schaffer (Johnston) 2&1.

Janis Owens (Cresten) No. 3 seed would breeze her way to win the second flight. Along the way Ownes would defeat No. 6 seed Bonnie Jones (Cedar Rapids) 2 up, No. 2 seed Cindy Morrison (Indianola) 2&1, and No. 8 seed Laura Pierce (Ankeny) 4&3.

Smith commented about her mom (Janis Owens) winning the second flight.

“It is so fun sharing all of this with my mom, we play in a lot of the same stuff and get to hang out together,” she said.

No. 3 seed Shirly Rochelle (Council Bluffs) held on and captured the victory in the third flight. Along the way Rochelle would beat No. 6 seed Juile Hartman (Greenfield) 2&1 No. 2 seed Kelly Grimes (Des Moines) in 10 holes. Before the final match No. 1 seed Darci Duey (Johnston) and No. 4 seed Becky Schwiete (Ankeny) fought hard for 16 holes before Schwiete won on the 17th hole. In the final Schwiete fell to Rochelle 2&1.

No. 1 seed Fiona Watson (Des Moines) battled back in the consultation bracket finals and won. Watson took down No. 4 seed Carroll Dethrow (Nevada) 3&2 and No. 2 seed Kathy Fortune (Rockwell City) 2&1.

In the first flight consultation bracket No. 2 seed Michell Klein (Jesup) won in style. Kline took down No. 3 seed Nicol Jones (Ankeney) 3&2 and Jan Sewright (Ankeny) in 11 holes to capture the win.

No. 1 seed Jan Herke (Ankeny) would win the second consultation bracket. In the process Herke defeated No. 4 seed Leighann Larocca (Clive) 1 up and No. 2 seed Sue Harmon (Slater) 3&2.

Julie Hartma (Greenfield) No. 3 seed would take home the victory in the third consultation bracket. Hartman would defeat No. 2 seed Lora Winter (Walford) and Mary Nelson (Ankeny) 2&1. 

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