Slim Chances vs. Equal Par

Annika Sorenstam (Sweden) has become the first-ever woman golfer to play at the Colonial PGA event, but will she be able to make the cut? Many experts say, `very unlikely`.

Although the course setting at Colonial CC is believed to be one of the most ideal (7,080 yards, a par-70), it may be too difficult for the woman player. When Nick Price (Zimbabwe) won the championship last year, those with more than 3 over par made the cut, which means that even men found it difficult to record under par at the event.

Sorenstam had practice rounds two months ago and recorded 2 over par with 72 shots (2 birdies and 4 bogeys). People may think that `it is only a one or two shot difference`, but it is not.

Players dealt with regular tees by shortening hole No. 4, which was 246 yards, a 3-par, by 30 yards. PGA Tour players generate far more club head speed, and the pins are in a much trickier position. If she fails in regular play, a par save will be nearly impossible to accomplish.

Sorenstam usually beats top players in the PGA with putts. This is because LPGA courses have wider fairways and are a shorter distance with roughs.

Some experts cautiously predict that she could record an even par by taking on the course with a sophisticated driver and iron shots. They pointed to the fact that Price, who averaged 280-yard driver shots, won the tournament last year.

Golf is a solitary game of `personal challenges`. And when hard-pressed to play up to snuff, Sorenstam will most likely not be able to play very consistently in this event. It`s up to Sorenstam.

Young-Sik Ahn ysahn@donga.com