Kayla Thompson had one of the best weeks in her golfing career when she advanced to Stage II in the LPGA/Epson Tour Qualifying School in October in Venice, Florida.
In four days of golf in Rancho Mirage, California, on courses such as Dinah Shore, Arnold Palmer and Indian Wells Classic, Thompson shot even-par 288 over four rounds, including a 2-under 70 in Thursday’s final round played on the Dinah Shore course. That put her 2 shots under the cut line and tied for 70th.
“The girls this year who made the top 125 cut earned Epson status,” Thompson said on her flight home from California. “The top 95 girls earned more Epson status and we get the chance to go to Stage 2 to earn even more. Categories are your priority for entry into Epson and LPGA events. That’s where you start the year but a good start at the beginning of the year can earn you better status.”
The top 95 scores and ties advanced to the Stage II qualifying tournament scheduled Oct. 17-20 in Venice, Florida.
“Absolutely would play as many Epson events as possible,” Thompson said. “It’s not just about the money but the competition and the possibility to get into LPGA events. That is the plan where I sit now … but that can change depending on how stage 2 goes.
“Either way, I am super proud of this week and the progress I have made with my game. Not my best stuff … but good enough to move on,” Thompson said.
Thompson opened her week with a pair of 73s, then posted an even-par 72 Wednesday to finish tied for 111th out of more than 300 players. The top 125 scores and ties through Wednesday’s third round advanced to Thursday’s final round.
Thompson lives in Clarkton and graduated from West Bladen High School.
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