Day One – U.S. Senior Women’s Open

Day one at Fox Chapel Golf Club for the start of the sixth U.S. Senior Women’s Open was played in perfect weather, setting a pristine scene for the competitors. However, the course certainly doesn’t need any more rain, though forecasts suggest it’s inevitable for the weekend. Tuesday saw a complete washout, with the course absorbing a staggering 2.75 inches of rain, leading to the cancellation of all activities.

(Copyright USGA/Fred Vuich)

Despite the weather challenges, there was remarkable golf on display, with JoAnne Carner stealing the spotlight. At 85 years old, Carner is a true character in the sport. Known for her vivacious personality and love for the game, she even joked about her smoking habit, suggesting she might quit this week due to the numerous stairs from the bag room to the locker room at Fox Chapel. With the nickname “Big Mama,” Carner is a beloved figure in the golf world. She boasts two U.S. Women’s Open Championships, won in 1971 and 1976, both in Pennsylvania—at the Kahkwa Club in Erie and Rolling Green Club in Springfield. Remarkably, Carner has shot her age or better in this event seven times in six years. Her enduring charm and impressive career continue to captivate fans and fellow players alike, making her a beloved and inspiring figure in the golf world.

JoAnne Carner.

JoAnne Carner.

JoAnne Carner & Tom Poljak.

The U.S. Women’s Senior Open is truly unique, as very little of the golf course is roped off. While ropes are found around the tees and greens, spectators have the chance to get up close and personal with their favorite players. This setting fosters wonderful interactions between the humble and approachable players and their fans. It was a fantastic day for golf in Western Pennsylvania, enhanced by ideal weather conditions and blue skies.

(Copyright USGA/Fred Vuich)

Western Pennsylvania has been fortunate to host numerous Major Championships, and this one is particularly special. Fox Chapel Golf Club, with its incredible facilities, served as a gracious host to the finest senior female golfers in the world. The charm of the venue and the warm hospitality made this event memorable for everyone involved.

(Copyright USGA/Fred Vuich)

Two Americans held the clubhouse lead for over an hour as Christa Johnson and Lisa Grimes both finished early with a -3 on their scorecards. Some might have expected a different Johnson, but that was not the case. Trish Johnson, the reigning champion from last year’s event, struggled on the challenging stretch of five straight par-4s on the back nine. She finished +4 on those holes and has some work to do to get back into contention, sitting at +4 for the day.

Christa Johnson is a solid player, having won nine LPGA Tour events, including a Major at the 1997 McDonald’s LPGA Championship. She has 15 professional victories in total, with one in Japan and five on the Legends Tour. Grimes, a seasoned competitor, has participated in 16 Major Championships. She is definitely a grinder, playing solid golf with no blemishes on her card, making three birdies on holes six, seven, and eighteen.

Christa Johnson. (Copyright USGA/Fred Vuich)

The leader after day one is Kaori Yamamoto, who made her move on No. 7 after a bogey on the short par-3 No. 6. She rattled off five birdies from holes 7-16 with some incredible putts and solid play. Her only blemish on the card was the bogey on the par-3 sixth hole, finishing the day at -4 and making her the outright leader. Yamamoto, 50 years old, earned her spot in this event by winning her qualifier by six strokes at Fort Worth, Texas.

Kaori Yamamoto. (Copyright USGA/Fred Vuich)