Wie to play in LPGA event at Turtle Bay

Advertiser Staff

Honolulu's Michelle Wie, 15, has accepted an invitation to play in the LPGA's newest event, the SBS Open at the North Shore's Turtle Bay Resort, Feb. 21 to 26.

Wie, who got an exemption from title sponsor Seoul Broadcasting System, will compete in the tour's first full-field event of 2005.

Annika Sorenstam, Grace Park, Se Ri Pak, Christie Kerr and rookie Paula Creamer are expected to play in the tournament, which will be held on the Arnold Palmer Course. The event has a $1 million purse, with $150,000 going to the winner.

The Golf Channel will provide coverage from Feb. 24 to 26.

Wie also will play in the PGA's Sony Open in Hawai'i, Jan. 13 to 16, on a sponsor's exemption. Last year, she missed the cut by one shot after shooting a 70-68. Wie also became the first female to shoot under par in a PGA event.

Wie played in six LPGA events last year, including the prestigious Kraft Nabisco, where she finished fourth. It was her second consecutive top 10 finish in the women's major, marking her best showing in any pro event.

Wie also played in the Curtis Cup, in which she was the youngest member and won two singles matches.

Ticket sales proceeds for the SBS Open benefit Friends of Hawai'i Charities, Inc. For more information regarding tournament tickets, sponsorship and promotions, call 792-9333.