Wie 2 Over Par at Samsung Championships

Michelle Wie hit a quadruple bogey at the LPGA Samsung World Championships on October 13, following her disqualification last year. Meanwhile, Lee Seon-hwa (20, CJ), 2006 Louise Suggs Rolex Rookie of the Year, was off to a good start, tying for third.

At the Bighorn Golf Club in Palm Desert, California on October 13, Lee Seon-hwa hit a 4-under 68, with five birdies and one bogey. She is one away from the two in first place, Lorena Ochoa (Mexico) and Annika Sorenstam (Sweden), both at 67.

Lee Seon-hwa bogeyed at the thirteenth hole (par 3) but birdied at the infamous 14th hole and kept up with the leaders.

Lee Seon-hwa said, “The long course was a disadvantageous for me but fortunately the wind blew from behind and helped me. It is an honor just to be a part of this tour, but it would be great if I won.” This tour is a “battle of the stars” where only winners of four major tours and top 20 in winnings participate.

Meanwhile, Michelle Wie, who was disqualified from her pro debut tour last year due to an improper drop, pulled off an eagle on the 12th hole (par 5) but fell behind when she quadruple bogeyed on the 14th hole.

Her tee shot landed in the bushes, then she missed her second shot while trying to hit in a difficult position. Her third shot again landed in the bushes, so she had to take a penalty shot for an unplayable. Her ball ended up on the green after 6 strokes, but she missed the 4.0m putt and ended that hole with an unbelievable eight. Michelle Wie birdied on the 17th hole but tied for only 12th place with Kim Mi-hyeon and Lee Mina (both KTF) at the end of the round with 2-over 74.

Pak Se-ri, who is looking for her first win in seven years, finished the round at 1-under 71, tying for 7th place.

jaeyuna@donga.com