This will be the second time Shi Yuting plays in the U.S. Women's Open, and she feels more optimistic and confident this year. (Photo : U.S. Women's Open)
On May 12, Shi Yuting secured the sole slot available at a China sectional qualifier for this summer's U.S. Women's Open.
She went up against 21 China LPGA Tour regulars and top amateurs at the CGA Nashan International Training Center Garden Course in Shandong.
The China qualifier was one of four international qualifiers held around the world. 21 events are held in the United States.
The 17-year-old national team player carded rounds of 74 and 71 for a one-over 145 score, and a one-shot victory along the 6,193-yard layout. Taipei's Cheng Ssu-chia was two shots behind Shi's win.
Shi closed with a round that included two birdies and lone-bogey, taking advantage of the afternoon's calmer conditions after a day of strong winds.
Shi will join the 70th U.S. Women's Open on July 9-12 at Pennsylvania's Lancaster Country Club. It will be her second appearance in the tournament after qualifying in 2014 as an amateur.
"I made a triple bogey at the second hole to the last in the morning and lost the lead, but I didn't give up. Last year, I won it in the afternoon. My advantage is stamina, endurance. I believe I can do it, so I just tried my best to play solid in the afternoon," Shi explained.
Shi missed the cut last year by nine strokes after shooting 80-79 on the Pinehurt No.2 layout, but she is more optimistic and confident about her impending performance this coming July.
"Last year I felt pressure and just went blank on the first tee in the U.S. Women's Open. But that was just nerves. I believe I can now play with a calm mind this year and get a better finish," Shi added.
