Posted on: Sunday, June 29, 2003
Michelle Wie struggles, but makes the final cut
| • | Wie's time will come once experience catches up to talent |
| • | Putting problems hurt Honolulu teen |
By John Curran
Associated Press
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| Bunkers didn't bother Michelle Wie, whose 72—143 total trails by 11 entering today's final round.
Associated Press |
Stanford, who came into the day sharing the lead with two others, used solid iron play and putting to make five birdies en route to a two-day total of 132.
Four players were bunched up one shot behind her, including two-time Classic champion Juli Inkster, while 13-year-old Michelle Wie of Honolulu was 11 strokes back after a 72 to just make the 143 cut.
Sorenstam, the tour's No. 1 player and the defending champion, roared back into contention after a lackluster opening round, shooting a 66.
Stanford, who shared the opening round lead with Laura Diaz and Kris Lindstrom, is in contention for a win for the first time since she joined the tour in 2000.
"I'm excited because I believe you learn how to win, at any level," said Stanford, 25, of Saginaw, Texas. "So, I think I get to learn a lot tomorrow. I get to learn what it's like to be in the final group. I've never been in the final group on Sunday."
Wie, the lanky schoolgirl who won the U.S. Amateur Woman's Public Links last weekend, continued to struggle with her putting, lipping the cup or narrowly missing several birdie opportunities.
