SALINA, KS - Two women earned a spot in the 2022 Senior LPGA Championship through a qualifier at Salina Country Club. Angela Ause finished in the top qualifier spot, with Patricia Beliard coming in second six strokes behind.
Ause shot 1-under 71 to secure her spot in this week’s event. The Minnesota native carded three birdies on the day. She attributes her low score to the course’s greens and her short game.
“I putted really well,” said Ause. “I started off a little shaky on the first hole, but I drained a 25-footer for birdie to calm me down a little bit. The greens are so smooth and fast and really fun to putt.”
Ause made the drive from Minnesota to Kansas to play in her second Senior LPGA Championship qualifier. This is her first success and something she’ll never forget.
“I’m really excited,” said Ause. “I tried to qualify a few years ago when it was at French Lick, so I’m really happy that I decided to come, and I’m overwhelmed with who’s in the field this week. It’s going to be really fun.”
Beliard qualified after shooting the second-best score, 5-over 77. She carded a lone birdie on the day, as well as a bogey-free back nine.
“It’s a thrill,” said Beliard. “I’m happy to be here and happy to qualify.”
The event means a lot to Beliard, who says it’s nice to have a way to advance her career just like men do. She hopes to see more women’s events like this happen in the future.
“It’s really special to go forward, to move even further and have more events for the ladies after 45,” said Beliard.
She’s excited to tee it up again later this week.
“The country club is good and everyone’s so nice,” said Beliard. “It’s a great place to be. The course is in good shape and has a great layout. I really like it.”