Weather Woes Impact LPGA Qualifying School Finale
News Summary
The LPGA Qualifying School wrapped up in challenging conditions, with significant weather delays reducing the tournament from 90 to 72 holes. Intense competition ensued, with standout performances from emerging talent. Jin Yang dominated with an 11 under score, while veteran players faced tough cuts. The event showcased a promising new wave of golfers aiming for LPGA cards in the upcoming season, highlighting the spirit and challenges of competitive golf.
Weather Woes and Tough Decisions: LPGA Qualifying School Wraps Up
This year’s LPGA Qualifying School wrapped up under challenging conditions, as players faced significant weather delays that reduced the tournament from a rigorous 90 holes to a still-challenging 72. Fans were on the edge of their seats as suspense built up when the final day of play was delayed to a Tuesday finish due to darkness and early-morning frost.
Resulting Cut Line Keeps Players on Their Toes
With the final cut line resting at 4 under par, the competition was fierce. Only the top 25 players (and ties) snagged coveted LPGA cards for the upcoming 2026 season. Among the standout stories, USGA champion Erica Shepherd found herself one shot shy of the cut line, while 17-year-old Gianna Clemente was also feeling the pressure, needing to boost her score to stay in contention.
With only a handful of holes remaining—seven for Shepherd and nine for Clemente—every shot was critical. Other notable players in dire need of improvement included Amari Avery, who sat at 1 under, Jeongeun Lee6 also at 1 under, and Kate Smith-Stroh with a 2 under showing. Perhaps the most nail-biting moment came as former British Open champion Hinako Shibuno stood at 4 under, hanging right at the cut line with seven holes left to play.
Leading the Charge: Jin Yang Takes Control
As the rounds progressed, it was Jin Yang from China who took the helm with an impressive score of 11 under. Yang was on fire, scoring 4 under through just 10 holes in the fourth round. Not far behind, Helen Briem from Germany was tied for second at 10 under, while Kokona Sakurai of Japan, a five-time winner on the JLPGA circuit, also held that spot.
Making headlines was also England’s Mimi Rhodes, who launched herself into contention with a phenomenal final round of 66, starting off with an eagle that resonated through the course. In stark contrast, veteran Kim Kaufman, who has faced her own struggles after being diagnosed with breast cancer last year, found herself outside the cut line in a tie for 75th.
A New Wave of Talent Emerges
The intense competition delivered not only seasoned professionals but also a promising new generation of players. A total of 31 players successfully secured their LPGA cards, while others will have to fall back on competing in the Epson Tour to keep their dreams alive. In a pivotal twist, Gianna Clemente needed a birdie on her final hole to make it to the next step, but instead ended with a disappointing double-bogey.
A Medalist’s Finish and Others Making Moves
After all the ups and downs, it was Helen Briem who claimed the coveted medalist honors with a final score of 13 under after showing consistent brilliance across rounds of 65, 69, 71, and 68. Polly Mack also had a stellar finish, placing in T-10 with a sensational closing round of 64, buoyed by a solid 30 on her back nine.
Other players making their mark included Lauren Walsh and Emma McMyler, both scoring 67s in the final round, which helped them clinch a spot in the top 25. Eight players managed to scrape through the cut at 5 under, a mix of established pros and emerging stars like Suvichaya Vinijchaitham.
What’s Next for the Players?
As the dust settles on this year’s Qualifying School, players will reflect on the challenges faced and the immense talent showcased. Whether it’s securing an LPGA card or gearing up for the Epson Tour, the spirit and determination shown by everyone involved set the stage for an exciting 2026 season ahead.
All eyes will undoubtedly be on these players as they navigate their careers and the ever-competitive world of professional golf. It’s a journey that’s just getting started!
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