July 8, 2009
Editor’s Note: Marina Alex arrived in Bethlehem, Pa., for the U.S. Women’s Open at the Saucon Valley Golf Course late on Monday night and will be blogging throughout her stay there. Alex, a member of the 2009 All-East Region team, the 2009 All-SEC Freshman team, and an individual qualifier at the 2009 NCAA Championships, will tee it up in her first Open this Thursday. Alex is a rising sophomore from Wayne, N.J.
U.S. Open Day 2
On Tuesday, I got to play 18 holes with Lorena Ochoa. It was the greatest experience I have had on the golf course. She is a great person and a fantastic golfer. The first hole was a little nerve racking with the crowds and just being with Ochoa. But after a hole or two we started talking and it was a lot of fun playing with her. We had a bunch of things to talk about regarding college and Coach (Greg). We also played with Amanda Blumenherst of Duke, who was a great collegiate golfer, and Lorena’s close friend from Mexico, Sophia Sheridan.
(Check out photos from Tuesday’s round here)
Some highlights of the day was our 15th hole, actual hole number 6, where our entire foursome hit our approaches within 4 feet of the flag and each made birdie. On our front nine, I got the privilege of meeting two-time US Open Champ Andy North. He is a really tall guy! Mr. North had some great things to say about Vandy’s very own Toby Wilt, who has been a huge fan of Vanderbilt Golf. They have known each other for years.
On my 17th hole, I actually outdrove Lorena. But it was the only time the entire day – she was a solid 20 yards past me on most drives. It is really great learning experience playing with the world’s number one. It is equivalent to playing a practice round for the Men’s Open with Tiger. It showed me what aspects of my game need to improve in order to become a successful professional golfer.
The fan support on Tuesday was superb. I signed more autographs today than I ever have, which is still something I need to adjust to. On Wednesday, I look forward to a relaxing day, playing nine holes, practicing, and eating! Can’t wait until Thursday!!
Read Alex’s Previous Blogs:
Tuesday, July 7