Matchplay ace in Open mix
WOMEN’S world matchplay champion Brittany Linicome tackles today’s opening round of the Australian Open without any practice at Royal Sydney.
After a delayed flight from the United States, Linicome walked the course late yesterday with her father who also doubles as her caddie.
They had been in transit more than 20 hours, but the 21-year-old American said she was not fatigued.
“I slept most of the way. I’m fine right now and we will walk the holes before going to our hotel,” she said.
Linicome could not schedule her trip earlier as she was committed to playing events in her home state of Florida earlier this week.
She will partner pre-tournament favourite Karrie Webb and reigning ANZ Ladies Masters champion Amy Yang in today’s opening round.
Linicome caused a major boilover last year when she came from 39th seed to beat Juli Inkster in the final of the HSBC Women’s World Matchplay title.
“I surprised myself, especially as my first-round match went to the 20th hole,” she said.
Linicome then won another five matches to collect a winner’s cheque of $US500,000 ($647,450).
She ultimately finished 14th on the 2006 LPGA Tour money list and achieved five top-10 finishes.
