In a sea of light-colored clothing, Caroline Hedwall certainly stood out at Charlotte C.C. today. While the oppressive heat sent many people to white polos and khaki shorts – and caddies to pullcarts – Hedwall steadfastly made her way along the course clad in all black. Making it even more striking was that she carried her own bag.
“I’m sweating but otherwise okay,” said the Oklahoma State University standout, who captured the NCAA Division I crown earlier this year. The Swede also played her way to low-amateur honors at last month’s Ricoh Women’s British Open.
Hedwall also added the weight of her golf bag to the pressure of the heat bearing down on the field here at Charlotte. When asked if she would keep carrying her bag throughout match play, she nodded, saying, “It feels good and I’m used to it from college, so I think I’m going to do that.” Hedwall’s two-day total of 2-under 142 will put her easily through into match play.
After playing two years of collegiate golf in Stillwater, Hedwall is expected to turn professional later this year. However, she did indicate she plans to once again play for Sweden in the 2010 Women’s World Amateur Team Championship, to be held October 20-23 in Buenos Aires, Argentina. In 2008, Hedwall teamed with future LPGA Tour player Anna Nordqvist and Pernilla Lindberg to capture the championship by a decisive 12 strokes over Spain. -- Christina Lance