Two local amateur golfers have earned spots in the Official Qualifier for the HUGEL-AIR PREMIA LA Open, with a chance to advance and compete in a professional golf tournament. The qualifying spots were awarded in partnership with the Southern California Golf Association (SCGA) and Southern California PGA (SCPGA).
Rose Zhang, a 15 year old from Irvine, qualified by winning the SCPGA’s Curtis Cup, awarded annually to the best girl golfer in Southern California. Zhang is a former champion of the ANA Junior Inspiration, which is considered one of the preeminent amateur events in the nation. She also competed in the inaugural Augusta National Women’s Amateur tournament held the week prior to this year’s Masters, finishing in the top 20.
Leigh Chien, a 13 year old from Irvine, qualified by shooting a score of 68 in the SoCal Junior Girls Showcase. Chien, who was the youngest player in the field by two years, beat 23 of the best female junior golfers in Southern California to earn her spot in the qualifier. Chien also has Augusta ties, having competed previously in the Drive, Chip and Putt National Finals held the Sunday before The Masters.
The Official Qualifier will be held at Wilshire Country Club on Monday, April 22. The lowest two competitors after 18 holes of stroke play will fill the final two spots in the 144-player field.
Competition rounds for the HUGEL-AIR PREMIA LA Open will be held April 25-28 at Wilshire, and will be televised live on Golf Channel.
Visit www.LA-Ospen.com for information about tickets, transportation and special events held in conjunction with the LPGA’s annual stop in Los Angeles.