July 25 is National Intern Day. At the IGA, we are fortunate to have four P.J. Boatwright Interns working with us this summer. Our interns are a part of the larger community of 201 Boatwright Interns that serve 57 Allied Golf Associations across the country. The Boatwright community is large, but each intern’s experience is unique. For National Intern Day our four interns would like to share their experiences thus far as Boatwrights.

Molly Baker – Championship Administration Intern (pictured right)

“Working as a Boatwright Intern has been an amazing experience. I have had the opportunity to try new things, network, and meet people, all while gaining valuable experience for my future career. This summer has gone by so quickly and I cannot wait to learn more. Some of the best days have been the longest days but they go by so quickly when you are working with great people and enjoying what you are working on. All the tournaments, course markings, and office work have given me a deep looking into what goes into championships and has given me an appreciation for them. I feel incredibly fortunate to have this internship and have thoroughly enjoyed learning and working with the staff at the IGA!”

Charlie Gaer – Marketing & Communications Intern (pictured left)

“Being able to call myself a P.J. Boatwright Intern for the Iowa Golf Association is pretty special. Throughout the summer so far I have gotten to showcase my skills behind the drone, camera, and written articles all while growing at the same time. Working with this staff has produced memories that will last a lifetime from prepping for tournaments to days in the office. There is never a dull moment at Golf House Iowa. Since the start of my internship I never knew how much work actually goes into amateur golf tournaments across the State of Iowa. In the future I will have a greater appreciation for what the IGA tournament has to offer. I am very excited to see where this internship experience takes me in the future.”

Paige Hoffman – Golf House Iowa Intern (pictured right)

“It is difficult to summarize the profound impact the Boatwright Internship has had on my life. Through this internship I have learned job-specific skills such as operating GHIN, managing a tournament in Golf Genius, rating a golf course, and organizing a tournament. However, the biggest lesson I have learned from the IGA staff is how to truly care for the members and clubs we serve at the IGA. I find an abundance of joy in serving the Iowa golf community because I get to give back to the community that, in a way, raised me. The highlight of my Boatwright Internship this season is the 100th Iowa Women’s Amateur. I got to serve on a committee for months leading up to the event, participate in the 100 competitive holes fundraiser, write some feature articles, and really see what it takes to run a high-level championship. After being a Boatwright Intern for the last two summers, I know that I want to pursue a career in golf administration when I graduate in May and I could not be more excited for the future.”

Max Naumann – Handicapping & Course Rating (pictured left)

“The experience has been amazing so far. My entire life I have worked in the golf industry so being able to learn the tournament side and course rating/handicapping side has been a blessing. I never really understood how much goes into each and every tournament. A notable moment for me is the IGA Match Play Championship. This was the first large event I helped work and it was very interesting seeing such a large event from the other side of the table.The three days I was at the match play event our shortest day was around 12 hours. This event helped me realize that the preparation we do in the office is very important in making the tournament days run very smoothly. The part that makes this internship great is the people. The IGA staff are some of the best people I have been able to work with. They are very patient and want us to learn all the little parts of running golf events. The IGA staff is also very caring. They ask us about our weekends and make sure that we are doing good on a personal level. It makes coming into work easy when you work with such kind people.”

Happy National Intern Day to Molly, Charlie, Paige, and Max! We are glad you are a part of the IGA team this summer.

The Waterloo Open was once again a nailbiter finish as it was contested on July 19-21 at Gates Park Golf Course.

In the Professional Division Phoenix, AZ resident and Iowa native Trevor Ullestad (pictured right) captured the victory in style over Ottumwa native Matthew Walker in a three hole playoff. The two of them each carded an impressive 193 (-23) over the course of three rounds. Will Dickson out of Nashville, TN placed solo third at 194 (-22). Just one shot behind Dickson was former Iowa State University player Nick Voke.

In the Open Amateur Division, Mikey Takacs of Mason City fired the low round of the day to come from one behind to capture the title at 207 (-9). His margin of victory was just a single stroke over Jed Dirksen of Hampton. Brock Snyder, -7, and defending champion Owen Sawyer rounded out the top-four.

In the Senior Division there also was a tie for first between North Liberty resident Chad McCarty and Waterloo native KC Doland at 142 (-2). In solo third just one shot behind was Joe Bates from Albia.

In the Super Senior Division, George Gartelos from Marion captured the victory carding a 150 (+6). Also from Marion Todd Hingten finished five strokes behind, and there was a tie for third between Sam Aossey from Cedar Rapids and Cedar Falls resident Brian Ott carding 157 (+13).

Click here for full results

It was a picture perfect finish to the 100th Women’s Iowa Amateur contested at Sunnyside Golf and Country Club in Waterloo.

Hawkeye golfer Paula Miranda (pictured right) sealed the deal as her birdie putt on 18 dropped in the center of the cup Wednesday evening. Miranda shot rounds of 74 (+2) and a pair of 72s for rounds two and three.

Miranda credited patience to her success after finishing round one over par.

“I wanted to take it one day at a time, I was three shots behind after the first round and knew I had to go out there and play better. I struggled with the greens the first day and I knew I had to fix that,” Miranda said.

Leading up to the 18th hole Miranda had a tester four footer for par on the par-3 17th and knew she had to make that.

“I knew it would be a big mistake to leave that putt short, so I just took a deep breath,” she said.

This marks back-to-back years the Iowa Women’s Amateur trophy will stay in Iowa City.

“Really proud I could make that happen. We were all proud of Kate last year, so it is pretty special we get to have it for another year,” Miranda also added.

Along with capturing the Fladoos Trophy, Miranda also received an exemption into the 124th U.S. Women’s Amateur.

Runner-up honors belong to Iowa State University player Keeley Marx (pictured right) shooting a respectable 221 (+5). Not the outcome Marx hoped for, but she was still proud of the way she fought.

“I struggled out there a little the last two days, but really happy with how I finished the last round. It was an amazing course and I am glad I got to go out there and play,” Marx said.

This tournament was an ultimate test for players and showed to be mentally draining.

“I thought this tournament was really mentally draining. It was tough getting up early, driving an hour and a half to get here, finishing at 8:30, but that is what you just have to do,” Marx added.

University of Northern Iowa’s own Anna Jensen (pictured left) climbed up the leaderboard during the final round as the only player to card an under par round. Jensen carded an impressive 69 (-3) for the day and it was credited to playing freely.

“Honestly I wanted to come out here and play the best I could and see what happens,” Jensen said.

Jensen saw herself taking it one shot at a time, hitting fairways, greens, and making putts.

“The goal for the day was to take it one shot at a time. First fairway, green, and then make the putt. That is what I did and everything just fell into place,” Jensen added.

Over the three rounds Jensen totaled for 223 (+7). Just one shot behind her finishing in fourth was no other than Drake University player Amber Henson. All four of Iowa’s major universities finished in the top four.

In the Open Division, going wire-to-wire, was none other than Waterloo’s very own Kelly Nelson (pictured right).

Nelson carded all three rounds of 78s’ finishing at 234 (+18). Nelson, as some may recall, has been crowned Champion in the Open-Division ‘13, ‘19, 21’, and now ‘24. Finishing in a tie for runner-up at 246 (+30) was Rosaline Kubesheski and Geri Huser.

Congratulations to both Marley Richter and Kim Fenstrman for getting a hole-in-one on the fourth hole during the second round of play!

Click here for full results

Seven Past Champions

In the first ten years of the Iowa Women’s Amateur, Lucile Robinson dominated the championship. Capturing five titles in a six-year span, she was the player to beat. Had it not been for Dorothy Pardue of Sioux City, she would have collected six straight. Arriving at Cedar Rapids Country Club in 1930, all eyes were on Robinson and Pardue. Pardue was a household name across the nation and was the tenth-ranked female golfer in the entire United States. She wound up going toe to toe with the defending champion as the two worked their way through the tough country club track.

The two battled for each of the 36-hole final, often never leading by more than two holes. Many reported it was “the most spirited tournament ever engaged in by Iowa Women” and it showed. Momentum shifted quickly and often as the summer heat wore on. Steady iron play and an even steadier putter kept Pardue tight with the teenager from Des Moines. Pardue wasted little time making her presence known, beginning birdie-birdie jumping out to a quick two-up lead. Robinson battled back and overtook Pardue through the first nine holes, but as the dust settled on the first 18 holes, Pardue was back in the driver’s seat with a one-up lead. The pair continued to exchange wins throughout the afternoon round, but as they came to the 36^th and final hole, Pardue made another routine par en route to her first Iowa Women’s Amateur title. She added to her already established resume of a Women’s Western Championship, Minnesota State Amateur, and Florida Open title.

The 1930’s had been dominated by teenage victories at the Iowa Women’s Amateur. 1938 was more of the same as a 17-year-old captured the title, but it wasn’t Dubuque’s Edith Estabrooks. Instead, it was a new champion in Ottumwa’s Ruth Smith. Even at 17, Smith wasn’t intimidated by the much older and experienced competition she faced. The championship match featured a head-to-head battle against Nelle Staats, more than twice Smith’s age. Smith stuck with Staats through the first 18 holes and found herself trailing by just one as the pair entered the final 18.

Smith flipped the switch and put the pedal down during the afternoon round, blazing through the first 14 holes. Shaving off four strokes on the front nine from the morning to afternoon, Smith was on a mission. Squaring the match on the 21^st hole, the pair remained in a deadlock through 23 holes, Smith reeled off seven wins in the ensuing nine holes. Just a single loss and halve made up for the other two holes as Smith recorded a dominant 6 & 4 victory to raise the trophy. In just her second time teeing it up in the state’s top women’s event, Smith wrote her name in the record books on the short list of teenage champions.

The 1971 Iowa Women’s Amateur was a pivotal championship for the eventual winner, but also the runner-up. Melanie Schiller of Waterloo was just weeks away from moving to Chicago when she teed it up at Westwood Park Golf Course. Firing a final round of 77, Schiller took down the state’s top players, including the defending champion, Corkey Nydle. It also marked another close call for Nydle who still searched for the illusive successful title defense.

Strong iron play and swinging easy guided Schiller through each of the four rounds. Not looking at the leaderboard also aided the Waterloo native along the way. “I went out there for the final round with three things on my mind. I think I followed through” she would later say. Opening the final round with a 39 on the front nine, Schiller remained steady on the closing stretch where she posted 38. Saving her best for last, her approach shot came to rest just two feet from the hole for the closing birdie. In reflecting on her victory Schiller shared “I’m proud to be from Iowa and any tournament I win in the future, I’ll tell them I learned my golf in this state.”

Deb Lewis will never forget the 1984 Iowa Women’s Amateur. With the event being contested at one of the state’s top clubs, Des Moines Golf & Country Club, the field featured all of the best players. The Marshalltown resident was fresh off winning the Fort Dodge Eclectic title earlier in the week and kept the momentum rolling when arriving in Des Moines. After opening with a 78 and 81, she found herself trailing the leaders by six shots. Even with a large deficit, she never lost faith saying, “In the back of my mind I thought maybe I could catch them”.

The leaderboard was crowded early in the final round a plethora of players were within five strokes of the leaders. By the time play was finished, five different players either led or held a share of the lead during the final round. Lewis slowly plotted her way around the par-73 layout and saved her best for last. Birdies on two of the final four holes saw her jump into a share of the lead as her final putt dropped. Tied with Joan Fails, the 36-hole co-leader, the pair entered into a sudden-death playoff. Matching pars on the first playoff hole saw the duo head to the second hole where both were left with lengthy par putts. Neither would capitalize, but it would Lewis’ bogey that would capture the Fladoos trophy after an untimely miss from Fails to extend the playoff. Her final round 75 tied the low round of the day by an impressive three strokes.

Ann Slater entered the 1996 Iowa Women’s Amateur with plenty on her mind. Slater’s mother was in the hospital recovering from brain surgery the month prior during the first two rounds and had been released during the final round. Even with it on her mind, Slater kept her head down and focused on taking it one shot at a time. Opening up the championship with back-to-back rounds of 72, she took a one-shot lead into the final round.

Just a year removed from being in the third flight, Slater teed off the final round in the last group with nothing to lose and no expectations. The only real prediction she had was that she would eagle the par-five 11^th hole. After a high towering three wood found the putting surface, Slater rolled in the 20-foot putt to rejoin the lead with just seven holes to play. The following hole, she drained her second straight 20-foot putt, this time for par, to regain the solo lead of the championship. Her lead grew to three by the time she walked off the 16^th green. Standing on the tee of the 18^th hole, her lead was two shots and Slater admittedly had no idea where she was at on the leaderboard. Her final stroke of the day was a four-foot bogey putt that she calmly rolled in before finding the nearest phone to call her mom. Six-time champion Corkey Nydle presented Slater with her trophy saying “Now you can take this home and show it to her”.

If the 1999 Iowa Women’s Amateur were to be described with one word it would be dominant. M.C. Mullen roared past the rest of the field during her record-setting victory 25 years ago at Elmcrest Country Club in Cedar Rapids. Opening up the event with a four-under-par 68, the Peosta native led by six strokes. That was only the beginning as she followed it up with an even-par 72 to double her lead to 12 strokes entering the final round.

With the Fladoos trophy in sight and the rest of the field in the rearview, Mullen was focused on chasing down the Elmcrest course record of five-under 67. With birdies on 9 and 10, she was two-under with eight to play. Another birdie on the par-five 15^th saw Mullen reach three-under and within striking distance of the record. Two late bogies derailed her chance at the course record but two other records were secured. She set both the largest margin of victory, 19 strokes, and the lowest 54-hole total. Her 54-hole total broke the previous record set by Iowa golf legend Jacque Fladoos of 219.

The 99th Iowa Women’s Amateur Championship at Finkbine Golf Course in Iowa City was a thrilling event, with the outcome undecided until the final hole. The leaderboard saw constant changes, with five players taking turns in the lead throughout the round. Ultimately, Hawkeye sophomore Kaitlyn Hanna emerged victorious on her home course to lift the Fladoos trophy. Hanna delivered a remarkable final round of one-under 71, matching the tournament’s lowest round, to overcome a four-stroke deficit and secure a one-stroke victory. Playing in the penultimate pairing, it was her dad who broke the exciting news to her.

The Hawkeye wasted no time cutting into the deficit, birdieing the second and fourth hole. Two bogies in a three-hole stretch brought her back to even on the day but she rebounded nicely with a birdie on the par-three 8^th to turn in one under 35. She played consistently on the back nine with two birdies and two bogeys to take control of the championship after the 15^th hole. With Finkbine known for its difficult closing stretch, Hanna finished with three straight pars to secure the win. It wasn’t without its drama, though.

Tied for the lead on the 18^th, she short-sided herself in the right rough. A spot that had given many of her fellow competitors fits, her home course advantage aided her as she successfully got up and down for par. Waiting to see how the last group finished, Hanna watched as a late bogey from Marshalltown’s Amber Henson left her atop the leaderboard. Reflecting on her win after a productive summer with her coaches, Hanna said, “It was great to cap it off with a win.”

Etched on the Thye & Fladoos Trophies

Winning an amateur tournament is not a small feat. However, women in Iowa have proven that they can do it, and some have done it multiple times throughout their careers. Iowa’s history is rich with individuals who have shown their passion and talent for the game throughout their entire career. Looking through history, their achievements have not only brought them personal glory but have also inspired generations to come who tee it up at the Iowa Girls’ Junior and Iowa Women’s Amateur.

In 1976, Dorea Mitchell kicked off her impressive amateur career. Shooting a four-round total of 301, Mitchell won the Iowa Girls’ Junior Amateur. It was just the beginning for the Grinnell native. The following year, 1977, Mitchell successfully defended her title at Sac City Country Club. Even more impressive than her defense, was the way she did it. Posting 301, she captured the title by an astonishing 11 shots and was just one stroke off the championship record. It made sense as the 1977 championship was conducted at her home track of Grinnell Country Club.

Just a year later Mitchell was playing in the Iowa Women’s Amateur. The University of Oklahoma standout had a two-shot lead going into the final round. Even with her lead, it still came down to the final hole, but Mitchell refused to succumb to the pressure. On the 18th, Mitchell was able to hit a tee shot right in the fairway allowing her to get on the green and two-putt for par. Mitchell won the Iowa Women’s Amateur shooting 304, beating her opponent Bobbe Carney by two and etching her name on the Fladoos trophy.

Just two years later Michell was again in the 1980 Iowa Women’s Amateur. Playing in another nail-biter round, Mitchell got on an impressive birdie streak, allowing her to break away from the competition. Although Mitchell won the Amateur, she was most excited that her round included only 27 putts, and it significantly contributed to her championship victory.

Fast forward to 1997, a new name was emerging in Iowa golf: Patricia Martinson. She was already making a name for herself in Iowa and would be a prominent figure in college golf. Playing in, being the medalist on the Iowa Four-State team and winning the Iowa Girls’ Junior Amateur in 1997, were just some of Martinson’s youth accomplishments. Her accomplishments would continue when she attended Charleston South University and was named Big South Champion and Player of the Year in 1999 and 2000.

Later in 2000, Martinson would compete in the Iowa Women’s Amateur, making it her sixth time participating. Just a year before Martinson had placed second in the 1999 Iowa Women’s Am, losing in a playoff to Stacy Berman. A year later the two were at it again, and Martinson was determined to come away with the victory. Not knowing where she stood throughout the round, it all came down to the last hole. Making a 5-foot putt for par secured the win for Martinson, and after five previous attempts, Martinson was an Iowa Women’s Amateur Champion. Apart from her amateur career, Martinson has an impressive resume away from the course. Martinson continued to give back to the game as she became a member of the LPGA and served as the University of North Carolina’s assistant head coach.

As Martinson’s success highlighted her perseverance and skillfulness, another golfer was preparing to make her mark on the Iowa golf scene. In 2002, there was a different type of championship. Sarah Gilbert, an Iowa State golfer, won the Iowa Girls’ Junior Amateur in 1999, and three years later Gilbert was ready. Shooting a 75 on the first day, Gilbert sat fifth on the leaderboard. In the second round, Gilbert shot an impressive 68, the low round for the tournament. In her final round, Gilbert shot even par, making a runaway for the championship. She claimed her lone Iowa Women’s Amateur title dominantly, capturing a seven shot victory over future champion Jenny Heinz.

While Gilbert’s dominance was impressive, another inspiring story emerged on the Iowa golf scene. Many who win championships are lifelong players of the game. That was not the same for Sierra Hargens. Hargens was first a softball player but was inspired by her father to try and play the game. Her success was apparent when she won the 2015 Iowa Girls’ Junior Amateur. Finding herself trailing first-round leader Karli Kerrigan by just a stroke, she opened up the back nine with an eagle on the par five 10^th to draw even. A birdie on the 13^th would put her ahead for good, as she captured the Betty Thye trophy by just a single stroke, and her first Iowa championship.

Two years later, the then-Indiana State University golfer was ready to win the Iowa Women’s Amateur. Taking it one shot at a time, Hargens was ready for the win. Holding onto the lead, Hargens looked poised to cruise through the back nine. An untimely double bogey opened the door for her closest opponents, but quickly regrouping, Hargens made the most of having wedge in her hand on the 17^th and 18^th. Closing with back-to-back birdies, the Cedar Rapids native secured her first Iowa Women’s Amateur title. Winning the event by four strokes, Hargens showed that it is not always experience that helps you, but confidence and grit.

Additional champions of both the Iowa Junior Girls’ and Iowa Women’s Amateur include:
Jessie Sindlinger
Kristin Paulson
Jenny Heinz
Becky Biehl
Susan Shinn
Melanie Schuller
Jacque Fladoos
Sharon Fladoos
Andy Cohn

Next Week on Women’s Wednesday…

Closing out the final weekly feature, look back on seven past champions and the mark they made on the Iowa Women’s Amateur.

Five Who Went Back-To-Back

Successfully defending an Iowa Women’s Amateur Championship title is exceptionally challenging due to the high level of competition from skilled golfers across the state. Each year, new and returning participants bring their best game, raising the bar higher and higher. Weather conditions vary greatly, adding an unpredictable element that tests even the most seasoned players. Mental and physical stamina are crucial, as the pressure to maintain top performance can be intense. Achieving back-to-back victories is a testament to a golfer’s consistency, resilience, and exceptional talent, making it an impressive and rare feat.

Elisabeth Waterman

When the Iowa Women’s Amateur began in 1922, many wondered who would be the first champion to successfully defend her title. Thankfully, they wouldn’t have to wait long as Elisabeth Waterman accomplished the difficult feat in just the fourth edition of the championship.

During the 1924 Iowa Women’s Amateur, Cedar Rapids Country Club was host to the top female golfers the state of Iowa has to offer. Waterman, of Davenport, collected the first win of the week after capturing medalist honors during the first round with an 88. At the time, papers reported that her 88 was “said to be the best score ever made by a woman on the difficult course.” It was only the beginning for Waterman that week as she skillfully worked her way through the match play bracket, securing a spot in the finals against Mrs. F.C. Buyers. The two battled throughout the entire match, as neither held a lead greater than one up.

Buyers often got the better of Waterman, but she refused to quit. She continued to find ways to tie the match, often the hole following a win from Buyers. The pair remained level through 18 holes and trudged on to the 19^th with the championship on the line. Waterman captured the 19^th hole and her first of two straight Iowa Women’s Amateur titles.

Returning to the championship in 1925, all eyes were on Waterman as everyone flocked to Sunnyside Country Club. During the second round of match play, Waterman was nearly defeated by Francis Drake before a late rally kept her title defense alive. Many said that after her rally and defeat of Drake, it was “practically conceded that she would retain the championship.” They were right. Her final match was against A.C. Clapp but a hot start from the defending champ left little doubt as to who would raise the trophy. Holding a three-up lead at the turn, it seemed the match would end quickly in favor of Waterman. Clapp, however, had different plans. She rallied to win the 10^th, 11^th, and 13^th, but a loss on 12^th and 15^th dashed her hopes. Waterman recomposed herself during the back nine, and captured the 15^th and final hole to secure her second Iowa Women’s Amateur titles. She didn’t know it yet, but she would become the first of seven champions to successfully defend their titles at Sunnyside Country Club. 

Elizabeth Curtis

Entering the 1927 Iowa Women’s Amateur, Elizabeth Curtis had never played in a golf championship. Growing up at Clinton Country Club, Curtis has played her fair share of friendly matches during her five years of learning the game. Teeing it up at Wakonda Club, many didn’t know Curtis’ name at the start of the week. By the end of it, everyone knew who she was.

Her championship match against Mrs. Byers was one of the most dominant performances in Iowa Women’s Amateur history. With a three-up lead through five, Curtis refused to let up, watching her lead grow with wins on the sixth through the ninth, taking a seven-up lead at the turn. The 18-hole championship match was decided on the 11^th green, as the pair tied the hole and Curtis claimed an 8 & 7 victory making the first of two titles.

Teeing it up at Arsenal Golf Club in 1928, Curtis once again performed well in the championship match. Battling against Frances Drake, Curtis got off to a dream start with a three-under-par front nine. Her stellar play saw her amass a four-up lead through nine holes where it would remain until closing out the match on the 15^th green. Credited with long drives and pinpoint accuracy with her irons, Curtis’ play further etched her into Iowa Golf History as the second successful title defense in the championship.

Betsy Bro

Entering the final round of the 1985 Iowa Women’s Amateur, Betsy Bro found herself one stroke behind the leaders and needing to make a move up the leaderboard. Finding herself in the penultimate pairing, Bro meticulously plotted her way around the front nine of Green Valley Golf Club. Turning in one over par, she found herself tied for the lead with Chris Cervetti-Kiel heading to the back. With a closing nine of even par 36, Bro eagerly waited in the clubhouse wondering if it would be enough. Even when others began to congratulate her, she quickly responded “as long as Chris is still out there it isn’t over. She’s tough”. Needing a miracle on the 18^th, Cervetti-Kiel made a bogey allowing Bro to capture her second Iowa Women’s Amateur title in three years. The victory would kickstart an impressive three-year run for Bro in which she lifted the Fladoos trophy annually.

The story of the 1986 Iowa Women’s Amateur was Mother Nature. Heavy rain storms on the final day forced the championship to be condensed from 54-holes down to 36-holes. Despite the weather challenges, Bro’s exceptional play during the first two rounds would be enough as she claimed a one-stroke victory over Tera Fleischman and Cervettit-Kiel. After trailing by two following an opening round 77, Bro bounced back with a 75. Consistent rain over the second and third day of the championship may have derailed the competition, but Bro remained steady for her first successful title defense.

Bro achieved her third consecutive Iowa Women’s Amateur title in 1987 at Mason City Country Club. She demonstrated the same skill and consistency that she had in years prior, finishing with a five-shot win over the runner-up, Barb Thomas. Bro’s final round score of 73, which was one of the best of the tournament, helped secure her fourth overall victory. Her two previous victories had been small margins, but 1987 marked the first time she would have to go into a playoff to claim the title.

Holding a three-shot lead heading into the final round, Bro remained ahead of the field through the 12^th. By the time she put the flag in on the 15^th, she was joined at the top by Ann Vandermillen. The pair remained tied heading to the 18^th hole, but Bro would have a five-foot birdie putt to capture the win. She would go on to miss and force extra holes against Vandermillen. The pair exchanged pars on the first two playoff holes, but Bro wasn’t ready to give up. Staring down a 30-foot birdie putt on the third playoff hole, Bro drained it, capturing her third consecutive and fourth overall title. “It was a great way to win it. I love competition like this. We were really going back and forth,” Bro later said. Five years later, Bro would once again return to the winner’s circle, capturing her fifth Iowa Women’s Amateur title at Pleasant Valley Golf Course.

Ann Vandermillen

Annie (Vandermillen) Albrecht was back for revenge in 1988 at Spencer Golf and Country Club. A year prior, Annie had almost reached the pinnacle of women’s golf in Iowa: an Iowa Women’s Amateur title, but fell just short in a sudden death playoff against Betsy Bro. The 1987 win was Bro’s third Iowa Women’s Amateur victory in a row and a tough pill to swallow for Vandermillen. However, she used the experience to play with fire in the 1988 contest. She left few questions unanswered as to who would win the title, winning by six strokes and having enough of a cushion to bogey three of the last four holes en route to the title. The taste of winning was much sweeter than what she had experienced a year before and too sweet to stop.

Vandermillen won the Iowa Women’s Amateur again in 1989 at Wakonda Club in Des Moines. Wakonda Club proved to be a difficult test for the field, but the Dubuque native battled it out for three days and came out on top by two strokes. Vandermillen would not be back to defend her title once again in 1990 as her golf game was taking on a new challenge. Coming off a successful college career at Wichita State University in 1989, highlighted by a 1987 Gateway Conference title and four selections to the all-conference team, she went on to play professionally on the Future’s Golf Tour (now named the Epson Tour). Vandermillen has since been named to the Missouri Valley women’s golf all-time team.

Megan Furnish

Cedar Rapids native Megan Furnish was in unchartered territory at the 2013 Iowa Women’s Amateur. The Missouri State standout was tied for the lead heading into the final round and was joined by two-time past champion Jenny Heinz. She’d earned her way into the final pairing by firing the low round of the championship with a 1-over-par 73. Even more remarkable about her second round was the fact that she had a triple bogey on the seventh hole. Her final round four-over 76 was enough to fend off not only Heinz but Alex Zenor, who fired the low round of the day with two-over 74. Her maiden victory was earned by two strokes, but her title defense wouldn’t be as easy, having to survive a two-hole playoff.

Opening the championship with back-to-back rounds of 74, Furnish found herself leading by one over Heinz and Christy Nelson. Paired with Heinz and Nelson, Furnish had a front row seat to see where she stood. As Heinz faltered, Nelson pressed on, matching Funish on nearly every hole. By the time the pair reached the 18^th, they were deadlocked. Beginning the playoff on the first, the pair exchanged pars. After Nelson failed to make par on the second playoff hole, Furnish calmly rolled in her five-foot par save. She had become just the 15^th player of all time to successfully defend her title at the Iowa Women’s Amateur.

Next Week on Women’s Wednesday…

Capturing both the Iowa Girls’ Junior Amateur and the Iowa Women’s Amateur is a rare and remarkable achievement. Look at four duplicate winners who have etched their names on both the Betty Thye and Fladoos Family trophies.

Triumphant Women Making Waves in Iowa’s Golf Scene

Iowa Golf history is rich with the remarkable achievements of women who have reached the pinnacle of success. From dominating state championships to earning national recognition, these trailblazing golfers have set new standards of excellence. Their dedication, skill, and perseverance have not only earned them titles but also inspired future generations of female athletes. Delve into the stories of these extraordinary women, celebrating their contributions to the sport and their lasting legacy in Iowa Golf.

Leanne Smith

Leanne Smith is no stranger to IGA events. She grew up playing in the Iowa Junior Girls’ Amateur and even represented Iowa at the 1999 Junior Girls’ Four-State tournament. Her success within the state in the last six years has been nothing short of remarkable. The Indianola resident has a knack for the match play format as she has captured five different match play event titles since 2019.

Kicking off her flurry of match play championships was the 2019 IGA Women’s Match Play at Tournament Club of Iowa. En route to her maiden victory, the mid-amateur took down a slew of collegiate players, including future Iowa Women’s Amateur champion Joy Chou of Iowa State. The following year, she once again dismantled the collegiate players in the field to capture her second straight title. Her third consecutive title came in similar fashion, capturing the title 3 & 2 over UNI Panther Anna Jensen. During both the 2020 and 2021 Smith was named the IGA Women’s Player of the Year, a nod to her consistent play all year long.

The same year, 2021, marked the first year Smith was eligible for the Iowa Women’s Forever 39 Match Play Championship. The nine hole format is a great fit for Smith who is known to jump out to early leads. After claiming the first three holes in the championship match, a par on the sixth was all that was left for Smith to claim the title. She would go on to claim her second title at the championship to kick off the 2024 season.

Perhaps the pinnacle of Smith’s career has been qualifying for the U.S. Women’s Mid-Amateur, a feat she has accomplished each of the of the last three seasons. During both the 2021 and 2022 Smith was able to reach the match play portion of the championship before bowing out.

Rose Kubesheski

Once the game of golf came into Rose Kubesheski’s life, it did not leave. Kubesheski did not start playing golf until she was older, but her successful resume makes people feel otherwise. The Dubuque resident has won the Forever 39 Match Play twice, the Senior Division of the IGA Women’s Four-Ball six times, and the Iowa Senior Women’s Amateur an outstanding seven times. From 2010 to 2017, there were only two years where she did not win the Iowa Senior Women’s Amateur. Additionally, Kubesheski has taken her game to the national level. Rose qualified for 1995, 2011 U.S. Women’s Amateur Public Links, 2010 U.S. Women’s Mid-Amateur and the U.S. Senior Women’s Amateur in 2017, 2022, and 2023. Her consistent play over the whole season has earned her the Iowa Senior Women’s Player of the Year title five times and a Leahy Medal nine times. However, one of the most impressive feats of her game may be her passion for walking the links. No matter the weather or the course, Rose loves to walk which is a rare trait to find today.

Kubesheski’s contribution to Iowa golf is not limited to her playing ability. She served as Dubuque Senior High School’s head girls’ golf coach for several years. In this role, Kubesheski was able to grow the women’s game in Iowa and show young girls how special the game of golf is. Additionally, she is a committed IGA volunteer. She currently serves on the IGA Board of Directors and three committees: the Women’s Rules and Competitions Committee, the Ann Griffel Scholarship Committee, and the Hall of Fame Nominating Committee. Her competitive spirit, heart for the game, and service make Iowa golf better each year. 

Anita Harsch

With the last name of Harsh, it only made sense that Burlington’s Anita Harsh toppled the field at the 1975 Iowa Women’s Amateur. Her 72-hole total of 229 was a staggering 11 shots better than runner-up Linda Frisch. Opening with rounds of 75 and 73, Harsch left little doubt that she was the player to beat. At the halfway point of the championship, Mason City Country Club had yielded just eight rounds under 80.

Round three brought Harsch closer to her competitors as she turned in her highest score of the championship with an 81. Even with her struggles, she still led by seven strokes going into the final 18 holes. There was little doubt that she would surrender her lead and those who thought she might were quickly silenced as she birdied the first two holes. She kept her foot on the pedal and birdied the fifth, seventh, and eighth, turning in an impressive four-under-par 33.

Her lone blemishes were on the 9^th and 12^th as she recorded bogey, but she quickly bounced back stringing together five pars and a birdie on the 17^th. Shooting even par on the closing nine allowed her to shave ten strokes off her third round, concluding the championship with a three-under-par 71. Harsch’s victory at Iowa’s premier women’s championship would be her lone victory. Still, she had to fight off a stacked leaderboard that featured three previous champions in Corkey Nydle, Linda Frisch, and defending champion Susan Shinn.

Jean Mowry

Golf is meant to be played for a lifetime. For some, success is experienced early whether it be as a junior, collegiate player, or into their early mid-amateur days. For others, success is found and sustained in the latter half of their career. Jean Mowry is the latter.

Hailing from Webster City, Mowry found success in the late 1990s and rode the momentum for half a dozen years, collecting numerous titles along the way. Between 1999 and 2005, Mowry won seven straight Iowa Senior Women’s Amateur titles and was named the Senior Medalist, awarded after the first round, a remarkable four times. During that stretch, Mowry proved that she was lethal not only in stroke play competition but in match play as well. She captured the Iowa Women’s Forever 39 Match Play Championship three consecutive years between 2002 and 2004.

Even more remarkable than her ten victories was that all but two were hosted at various venues. Her ability to play well under pressure at a slew of different courses and playing styles cemented her as a senior legend in the history of Iowa Women’s Golf.

Barbara Berkmeyer

Barbara (Bubany) Berkmeyer’s golf career spans over six decades. Born in Fort Madison, she started playing golf at age four under her father Frank’s guidance. After moving to Ottumwa in 1952, she participated in the 1954 Southeast Iowa Women’s Championship at age 10, later winning it in 1965. Berkmeyer made a name for herself in Missouri after winning the 1962 St. Louis Women’s District Golf Association Junior Girls’ Championship, earning the first women’s athletic scholarship at the University of Missouri.

She won her first Missouri Women’s Golf Association State Championship at 21 and went on to win four more titles. Competing in 11 USGA Championships, she was runner-up in the 2002 U.S. Senior Women’s Amateur and the 2002 Canadian Ladies National Senior Championship and won the Missouri Senior Women’s Amateur title 13 times. Berkmeyer also had a 25-year career as a middle school teacher and has been inducted into the St. Louis, Missouri, and University of Missouri Sports Halls of Fame.

Next Week on Women’s Wednesday…

Hoisting the Fladoos trophy in consecutive seasons is easier said than done. But for a select few, they did so with ease.

The Enduring Legacy of Ann Casey Johnstone

In the 100-year history of the Iowa Women’s Amateur, few have left as permanent of a mark as Ann Casey Johnstone. The Mason City native is one of only two females to capture the championship six times, and her final title came at none other than Mason City Country Club. The 18-hole track, which she called home, helped her hone her skills and shape her into a household name not only in Iowa but on the national level.

Members of the 1960 U.S. Curtis Cup team which included Judy Bell, Judy Eller, Joanne Goodwin, JoAnne Gunerson, Ann Casey Johnstone, Barbara McIntire, Anne Quast and Mildred Prunaret, Captain.

Johnstone commenced her amateur career with a significant victory at the 1941 Iowa Women’s Amateur, marking the onset of a remarkable two-decade tenure in amateur golf. Accumulating an impressive total of six Iowa Women’s Amateur championships, alongside national recognition and multiple appearances at the Curtis Cup, Johnstone emerged as one of the state’s most distinguished players. Capturing the pinnacle title of Iowa Women’s Golf in 1941 was just the beginning as she went on to claim the 1951, 1954, 1955, and 1957 championships before her sixth and final.

Notably, Johnstone’s national prominence soared in 1956 with victories at the Palm Beach Invitational and a semifinal finish at the U.S. Women’s Amateur, leading to her acknowledgment as the nation’s top female golfer in 1957, albeit humorously dubbed her “Bridesmaid Year” due to several runner-up finishes.

Throughout her illustrious career, she clinched notable titles including the Trans-Mississippi and North and South championships in 1959, alongside representing the United States in the prestigious Curtis Cup in 1958, 1960, and 1962. Transitioning to coaching at Stephens College in 1964, Johnstone’s legacy continued to thrive, earning accolades such as LPGA Coach of the Year and induction into multiple golfing halls of fame, cementing her status as a revered figure in the world of golf.

Ann Casey Johnstone with the 1957 U.S. Women’s Amateur trophy.

Her sixth and final state title, secured in 1959 at Mason City Country Club, held special significance for her, being her hometown course where she was honored as a lifetime member two years prior. While Ann Casey Johnstone passed away in 2014, her legacy continues to live on not only in Mason City, but for the next generation of Iowa’s young golf stars.

Beginning in 2024, the Iowa Junior Girls’ Amateur and Iowa Women’s Amateur champion will receive an exemption into the respective USGA National Championship (U.S. Junior Girls & U.S. Women’s Amateur). With the generosity of Johnstone’s children (Jean Ann & Joseph Grabias) and nephew (Casey Martin), the winner of each championship will receive the Ann Casey Johnstone sponsorship. Thus far, her family has raised $5,000 in Ann’s honor to help alleviate the unexpected costs surrounding travel and lodging at these national championships.

Ann Casey Johnstone’s legacy endures through this honorary donation and her distinguished tenure at Mason City Country Club. Interestingly, a fresh “Legacy” is emerging at MCCC.

In late 2022, the Pritchard Companies acquired Mason City Country Club, renaming it “Legacy Golf Course” in honor of the owner’s father, Joe Pritchard, who had a deep connection to the club. A comprehensive renovation project commenced, beginning with drainage improvements led by a team of engineers, including the installation of over a mile of main tile and three holding ponds to address persiste

nt drainage issues. Subsequently, Kevin Norby developed a master plan based on the original 1915 Thomas Bendelow design, featuring new greens, holes, bunkering, irrigation

system, maintenance facility, and tee boxes. Construction is currently underway, with Dunnick overseeing bunker and green shaping on the front nine, while play continues on the back nine. Additionally, a 5,000 square foot Pavilion overlooking the course has been constructed, serving as an interim clubhouse and future public multipurpose facility.

To learn more about the course restoration, Tom Bendelow’s vision, and Ann Casey Johnstone’s life & career, click here.

Next Week on Women’s Wednesday…

Commending the impressive golf achievements of Iowa’s past players.

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 16^th 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 16^th. 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.

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.

Click here for full results