Beth Allen posted a 4-under round of 68 on the Hills Course to sit T-10 in the third round at the final stage of the LPGA Qualifying Tournament and is in a good position heading into the weekend.

“I had a really good start but then was sort of up and down,” said Allen. “I think I had seven birdies but only had 4-under. Front nine was good, but then I leveled out on the back nine which was fine. All in all it was a good day.”

The American currently sits No. 63 in the Rolex World Golf Rankings and No. 1 in the Order of Merit on the Ladies European Tour (LET). So why LPGA Q-School?

“I want options, I’m not planning on leaving the LET,” explained Allen. “I just want to play all year, and I want to fill in some weeks and see what happens. Who knows what will happen and who knows how many I will play or what but I am definitely going to play on the LET.”

Allen first earned her card on the LPGA Tour in 2005 and struggled a bit not making a lot of money and thought Europe would be a good option.

“I didn’t make a lot of money, and there was more money in Europe, so I thought why not try and travel and do my job,” said Allen. “I thought that was a really exciting opportunity. So, when I went to Europe the first year I completely fell in love with it and I kind of never looked back but now we’ll see.”

What has changed for Allen?

“I’ve grown up a lot, and I definitely have more experience. I’ve won a few times now and think that really helps confidence-wise. Coming here I feel like I should do really well but in 2005 I had no idea what to expect so I’ve been out here a few times and I know what to expect, and I know the golf courses, so I feel better,” explained Allen.

Maybe having a trusted colleague on the bag has also helped Allen. Sophie Gustafson, a five-time winner on the LPGA Tour, has been looping for Allen for the past 18 months including her three wins on the LET.

“It’s awesome, it’s great to have a caddie that I have experience with here that really help and especially her she has tons of experience, knows how I’m feeling and she keeps me really smiling out there,” said Allen. “She’s been a huge help to me, and I’m so grateful that she’s here.”

Gustafson keeps Allen relaxed and focused on the course, although she laughed when saying, “she doesn’t need a lot of relaxing.”

Beth Allen and Sophie Gustafson Make for a Winning Team

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