Michigan Golf Journal August 2021

LPGA Tour LPGA Tour major champion and 12-time winner Ariya Jutanugarn made a pretty bold statement right after coming from behind to win the Dow Great Lakes Bay Invitational (at 24-under par) with her sister, Moriya as teammate, that could well sum up how far the tournament has come since it’s inaugural year in 2019. When asked where the Dow LPGA Tour’s only annual team event ranked on her long list of wins, she said it was the best. “I would say (it’s) going to be the top one because like every tournament we spend, she is always with me, and this time (it’s) even more special because we win together. So far, this one the best one.” It was canceled last year due to Covid-19, but the Dow tournament has quickly become a player favorite due to the unique format allowing for sisters like the Jutanugarns and the Kordas – and friends on Tour to play as a team. Defending champs (from 2019) Cydney Clanton and Jasmine Suwannapura admit the event has strengthened their friendship, and many players comment it can be more stressful because of human nature feelings to not let your teammate down in the alternate shot and best ball format – proving they are invested in the team. “Me and Cyd are great friends,” Suwannapura said. “I can talk with her about everything, like my personal life or golf stuff. We both feel very comfortable around each other. From now on, forever, we are going to root for each other, stay close and be very, very good friends.” More fans turned out for the final round on July 17 than the first year, despite the late announcement that fans would be allowed when the state was opening up more in the weeks prior. The Midland Country Club course was in immaculate condition in mid-July, despite heavy rain earlier in the week. But that was nothing compared to the spring of 2020 and the Midland floods caused by the breached damns to the northwest. Water completely covered several holes on the course, including the entire 18 th green and it was foot-deep inside the clubhouse, but golf was being played just four days later by members. That’s at least three great comebacks. MGJ Dow LPGA Tour Wrap Up By Tom Lang