Priming up for the US Women’s Amateur, Filipino teen hotshot Rianne Malixi turned in an even-par 72 to tie for 14th after first round of the Canadian Women’s Amateur Championship Tuesday at Ashburn Golf Club in Nova Scotia.
Right after finishing second in last week’s US Girls Juniors, the 16-year-old Malixi plunged into action but encountered a tough round that saw her shooting three birdies in the front nine (4th, 8th and 11th) and bogeying Nos. 6, 17 and 18.
“My preparation (for the US Women’s Amateur) is going on well,” Malixi said. “I was able to rest for a few days then took practice in.”
Hometown bet Brooke Rivers from Brampton sizzled with a seven-under 65 to take solo leadership on the strength of her birdies in the 2nd, 4th, 6th, 7th, 11th, 12th and 15th.
Fellow Canadian Lauren Kim is at second place after a 67, while one shot further is American Maisie Filler with a 68.
The venue suffered some damage after a record rainfall last month but organizers said the staff was able to ensure that the tight, challenging course is ready to host the championship.
The 109th edition of meet that produced major champions like Brooke Henderson, American Jennifer Kupcho and Thai Ariya Jutanugarn, features some of the world’s leading players in the ranks.
Like Malixi, many of those competing are players honing their skills for the US Women’s Amateur slated 7-13 August in Los Angeles.
Despite losing to Kiara Romero in Colorado, Malixi managed to move up to No. 75 in the women’s amateur ranking.
