Illinois women’s golf heads into another tournament this week on Monday, Sept. 30, and Tuesday, Oct. 1. This marks a new week for the Illini and will hopefully offer a chance for a fresh start.
After a struggling performance at the Cavalier Regional, where they tied for eighth place, the team is searching to regain momentum. They will compete at the Westmoreland Country Club in Wilmette, IL, determined to up their game.
The 2024 Windy City Collegiate Classic, hosted by Northwestern, features a competitive array of 15 teams. This includes Arizona, Arizona State, Augusta, Duke, Georgia, Iowa State, Oregon, Purdue, South Carolina, USC, UCLA, Virginia and Wake Forest. With a total of 80 players participating, it will be yet another test for a group that has struggled through two weeks.
This well-maintained course features a par 72 layout and stretches across 6,519 yards. It presents a challenging layout, and the Chicago winds won’t make it any easier. The course caters to golfers of all skill levels, making it an excellent venue for the tournament.
Illinois is bringing a five-man lineup led by junior Victoria Zheng. Last week, Zheng led the Illini at the Cavalier Regional. She finished in the top 20 with a performance that showcased her skill and determination. A rare bright spot for the team so far, the Illini need her momentum to carry into this week’s tournament. Sophomore Yurang Li, junior Brielle Mapanao, senior Lexanne Halama and junior Anna Ritter round out the Illinois five.
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This is the fourth time the Illini are competing in the Windy Cindy Collegiate Classic. Last season, the team finished poorly in 15th place. However, this year’s team is filled with renewed energy and optimism, eager to make a significant impact in this competitive field.
The tournament format consists of 54 holes, with 36 holes played on Monday and the final 18 holes on Tuesday. Tee times will begin bright and early at 7:30 a.m. on both days, leaving no room for slow starts. As the Illini prepare to take the course, they are focused on not only improving their previous standing but also showcasing their growth from their previous two tournaments.
@mattisonleskis
