Starting a Second Century

If the 101st CWGA Match Play Championship turns out anything like No. 100, it will be an outstanding start to the second century for the association.

This year’s Match Play is set for Monday through Thurday (June 13-16) at Aurora Hills Golf Course.

Last year’s overall champion, Paige Spiranac, has since become a social media sensation, has appeared on the cover of Golf Digest and earlier this month won an event on the Cactus Tour. In her 35-hole 2015 title match against University of Colorado golfer Brittany Fan, the two players combined to make 22 birdies and were 15 under par. 

And Colorado Golf Hall of Famer Lynn Zmistowski notched her fifth individual CWGA championship victory. Zmistowski trailed Kathy Malpass after 16 holes, but won the 17th and 18th for a 1-up win.

While Spiranac has since turned pro, Zmistowski will be back to defend her senior title, and Malpass will return as well. Zmistowski is also a two-time winner of the open division.

In the open division, the entrants include U.S. Women’s Open qualifier and two-time CWGA Player of the Year Jennifer Kupcho; Mackenzie Cohen, the former state high school champion who placed third in the NCAA Division III Finals; and Colorado Golf Hall of Famer Janet Moore. Kupcho claimed the title in 2014.

Among other entrants (open or senior division) are Colorado Golf Hall of Famers Kim Eaton (winner of the open division in 2004 and twice the senior division) and Christie Austin (2007 senior champ), along with former 5A state high school champs Gillian Vance, Calli Ringsby and Michelle Romano.

Championship and senior championship divisions will be the only ones played at scatch, and they will have a qualifying round on Monday (June 13). For Monday’s tee times, CLICK HERE.