MESA, AZ. — The 132-player field for the Carlisle Arizona Women’s Golf Classic has been finalized by the Epson Tour. The “Road to the LPGA” begins a three-week, west coast stretch in the Grand Canyon State, playing the third annual tournament from March 16-19th at Longbow Golf Club in Mesa, Arizona.
Individuals will compete in a 72-hole, stroke-play format for $335,000 and a winner’s share of $50,250. A cut will be made to the low 60 and ties after 36 holes. Tournament admission is free and there will be activities for fans of all ages throughout the weekend – a kid’s zone, a brewery festival and more.
The only 2023 champion so far, Agathe Laisne, will tee it up at Longbow Golf Club in hopes of securing another victory.
“It feels great [heading to Mesa]. I’ve been there, so I know how the course plays,” said Laisne. “I’m excited to play in Arizona. I think the place is gorgeous. I’m very excited and full of confidence.”
Joining Laisne in the list of notable players is the 2022 Carlisle Arizona Women’s Golf Classic champion, Fatima Fernandez Cano. The two-time Epson Tour winner was happy to see the Carlisle Companies’ commitment to women’s golf when they announced an increase to their prize funds in 2023 and is excited to defend her title in Mesa this year.
“It feels great to go back to compete in a place I’ve always enjoyed. I have always loved this tournament and it of course became a little more special last year after my victory,” said Cano. “It is also great to see Carlisle [Companies] increasing the purse this year. I’m thankful for their support of women’s golf!”
A handful of players will compete with a special connection to the state of Arizona. Olivia Mehaffey and Calynne Rosholt were both given sponsor exemptions and will represent Arizona State University. Mehaffey, who graduated in 2021, was part of the National Championship-winning team, won the PAC-12 individual title and was a four-time All-American. Rosholt, a current sophomore Sun Devil, will make her debut on the professional stage, excited to learn more about what her future could hold.
“I am really looking forward to the opportunity to play in this event,” said Rosholt. “I am very appreciative of the sponsor’s exemptions I got. I am so excited to represent ASU at such a prestigious event and test my abilities as a high-level golfer. This will be my first experience in a professional golf tournament, and I could not be more excited to have a peek into what my future could hold!”
Other notable players include major champion Pernilla Lindberg and 2022 Epson Tour graduates Grace Kim and Celine Borge. Epson Tour ambassadors Bailey Tardy and Samantha Wagner will also compete before their LPGA rookie season begins.
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