Be here, when the magic returns as senior women’s golf greats play for the chance to become a champion again. Take part in the excitement as the women take on the famous Pine Needles Lodge & Golf Course in Southern Pines, N.C.
I have tickets for a championship round. When is the best time to attend?
CHAMPIONSHIP ROUNDS 1 AND 2
Play is scheduled to begin at 7:30 a.m. from both the first and 10th tees. The last groups are scheduled to begin play at 2:09 p.m. from both the first and 10th tees. *subject to change
- Thursday, May 16 (first round): Gates open 7:30 a.m. to conclusion of play
- Friday, May 17 (second round): Gates open 7:30 a.m. to conclusion of play
CHAMPIONSHIP ROUNDS 3 AND 4
The first starting time will be determined by the number of players who make the cut at the conclusion of the second round (50 lowest scorers and ties). Generally, the first pairing begins play from the first tee between 7–8 a.m.; the last pairing for both days will start from the first tee approximately 12:30 p.m.
- Saturday, May 18 (third round): Gates open at the first tee time and will remain open until the conclusion of play *Subject to change
- Sunday, May 19 (final round): Gates open at the first tee time and will remain open until the conclusion of play *Subject to change
What happens in the event of a playoff?
If there is a tie for the low score after 72 holes, a two-hole playoff will be held immediately following the conclusion of play of the fourth round.
I have a general grounds ticket. Where are the best places to view golf?
Pine Needles Lodge & Golf Club is one of the country’s greatest golf courses, so there is no bad place to watch, but to get the best piece of the action, we recommend the following locations:
- Front 9
- First hole tee-offs are always exciting! Watch from the first tee for a chance to see players start their rounds in a well-attended area.
- Hole 3 is the signature hole on the course and has been named one of golf course architect Donald Ross’ top 18 holes. It is also frequently named one of the top 500 holes around the world. The par 3 is a perfect viewing hole for spectators.
- Back 9
- Hole 10 is one of the most iconic views in the Pinehurst area, and also happens to be a long par 5 – watch as players go for the green.
- Head over to the majestic 18th hole as each player makes their final stroke and finish their round. This is where history will be made!
- The Bell Pavilion, located near the 18th green, is an open-air facility that has first come first serve seating and food and beverage available for purchase.
The U.S. Senior Women's Open is a unique championship that offers fans the ability to walk alongside the players from hole to hole. You'll have a front row seat to watch each shot and listen in as caddies offer their knowledge.
Who can I anticipate seeing playing in this championship?
Many players who had previously played in the 1996, 2001 and 2007 U.S. Women’s Open will be returning to Pine Needles Lodge & Golf Club to attempt to win the 2nd U.S. Senior Women’s Open. Among the returning faces is Dame Laura Davies, the reigning U.S. Senior Women’s Open champion, who will be defending her title.
JoAnne “Big Mama” Carner also shot her age (79) at last year’s inaugural championship. Will she be able to shoot her age this year at 80? You’ll also see a number of fantastic local Carolina players in the field such as Donna Andrews, Rosie Jones, and Cathy Johnston-Forbes.
The dynamic sister duo of Hollis Stacy, three-time U.S. Women’s Open champion, and Martha Leach, who won low amateur at the inaugural U.S. Senior Women’s Open, will also be playing and cheering each other on.
These are just a select few of the familiar faces you’ll see!
I want to watch players practice. When can I do this?
Unfortunately, practice rounds prior to the championship are closed to the public, but we encourage fans to come out early in the morning on Thursday – Sunday to witness the event from start to finish, from warm-ups on the range, to the last putt on 18.