U.S. Women's Open begins today in Kohler

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The U-S Women’s Open begins today in Kohler – and the Blackwolf Run course won’t be the only thing challenging the 156 players. Highs in the 90’s are expected for at least the first two rounds, and 2010 Open champion Paula Creamer says staying hydrated will be a “huge factor.” Se Ri Pak – who won the Women’s Open the last time it was played in Kohler in 1998 – had to withdraw from a tournament in Arkansas last week due to the heat. She said she’ll prepare herself better for the Wisconsin heat. More seating for fans has been added in the shaded areas at Blackwolf Run, and tournament director Ben Kimball says he hopes fans will drink lots of fluids and rest when it’s needed. Se Ri Pak is one of nine players in this week’s Open who also competed in the ’98 event at Kohler. The others are Pat Hurst, Lorie Kane, Wendy Ward, Karrie Webb, Isabelle Beisiegel, Christie Kerr, Catriona Matthew, and Juli Inkster. The world’s top-ranked player, 23-year-old Yani Tseng, hopes to finish a career grand slam with a victory in the Open. Tiger Woods’ niece Cheyenne is competing, along with the popular Michelle Wie. But there are no Wisconsin players in the field. The state’s last L-P-G-A regular, 49-year-old Sherri Steinhauer of Madison, retired last year. She attempted a comeback earlier this spring, but struggled.

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