The Oregon women’s golf team started their spring season at the Therese Hession Regional Challenge. After the first round at Palos Verdes Golf Club, they are tied for seventh place with Arizona State and SMU, all posting a score of 10-over 294. UCLA leads the field at 2-under par, followed by Texas A&M at 2-over.
The Ducks began their round on the back nine. Their top four players shot 1-under par, achieving seven birdies and six bogeys. However, things got tougher after the turn, resulting in a combined score of 11-over on the front nine.
Three players—Tong An, Darae Chung, and Kiara Romero—led the team with scores of 2-over 73. Freshman Sophie Han finished with a score of 4-over 75. Chung stood out early, making two birdies in her first six holes but faced challenges later, ending with a couple of bogeys.
Romero, who had three birdies in the round, made history by becoming the eighth player in the program to reach over 300 career birdies. Han also made back-to-back birdies but encountered difficulties on the front nine, affecting her final score.
Current Standings:
- Oregon: 10-over 294
- Tong An: 2-over 73
- Darae Chung: 2-over 73
- Kiara Romero: 2-over 73
- Sophie Han: 4-over 75
- Shyla Singh: 8-over 79
Oregon’s next round will begin Monday at 9:00 a.m. PT.
Insights and Context
Women’s golf is gaining more visibility, and NCAA golf tournaments are becoming more competitive. According to a recent report from the Women’s Sports Foundation, female participation in golf has increased by 15% over the past decade, reflecting a growing interest in the sport among young women.
Social media trends show fans actively supporting their teams, sharing highlights and player performances. The hashtags #WomensGolf and #NCAAGolf are often trending during tournament seasons, indicating a vibrant community rallying for female athletes.
As golf continues to evolve, programs like Oregon’s are crucial for fostering talent and enhancing the visibility of women’s sports. The Ducks’ performance in this tournament sets a strong precedent for the rest of the season.
For in-depth stats and player profiles, check out the NCAA’s official page here.
