March 9, 2008
WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. - After one round of play, the No. 10/11 Purdue women's golf team is in a two-way tie for sixth place at one-over 289 in the UCF Challenge. The Boilermakers are eight strokes off the pace in a tournament that boasts 15 of the nation's top 25 as ranked by Golfweek.
The 54-hole event, hosted by Central Florida, is being held at the RedTail Golf Club, a par-72, 6,301-yard layout. The second-annual event will benefit the Florida Children's Hospital and the medalist from the Challenge will receive a sponsor's exemption into the LPGA's Ginn Tribute Hosted by ANNIKA.
Purdue junior Maria Hernandez is the clubhouse leader for the Boilermakers after firing a one-under 71, good for a 15th place tie individually, in Sunday's first round. Freshmen Maude-Aimee Leblanc and Junthima Gulyanamitta both finished the day on par, 72, which places the duo in a tie for 21st individually.
Junior Christel Boeljon turned in a two-over 74 Sunday, which puts her in a tie for 46th individually. Classmate Carolyn Mess finished her day with a seven-over 79.
Southern California is the team leader heading into the second day of competition with a combined seven-under par 281. The top-ranked Duke Blue Devils are close behind at six-under. No. 2 UCLA is in fourth at two-under.
Alison Whitaker from Duke is the overall leader after firing a seven-under 65. Following close behind is Cydney Clanton of Auburn at six-under. Top-ranked Amanda Blumenherst from Duke is four strokes off the pace at two-under.
The second day of competition will begin at 8 a.m. Monday. Competition will run through Tuesday with live scoring available throughout the entire tournament at golfstat.com. Daily results and recaps can be found at www.purduesports.com.