Great Golfers

GREAT GOLFERS usually play their best in major tournaments. In the 2001 United States Women’s Open, Karrie Webb stood high above her challengers.

The 26-year-old Australian entered the tournament’s final day at Pine Needles Lodge & Golf Club with a five-stroke lead over South Korea’s Se Ri Pak. After Webb posted a 5-under-par 65 on the second day, no one rose to her level.

Paired with Pak for the last round, Webb, the defending U.S. Open champion, continued her peak performance, while her partner struggled. On the seventh hole, she landed a perfect 6 iron, setting up a 15-foot birdie, while Pak overshot the green and took a bogey.

The scenario repeated on the back nine. Webb birdied the final two holes with putts of 45 and 20 feet, finishing the day with a 69. Her four-round tally of 7-under-par brought the Australian the U.S. crown by eight strokes.

Despite missing six fairways and carding a 72, Pak finished second at 1-over-par. Dottie Pepper rallied on the last day to shoot a 69 and take third overall, her best Open showing ever.

With the victory, Webb collected her fourth major title in seven outings. She also earned the distinction of becoming the seventh LPGA member to win back-to-back Open titles.

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POINT At some point during a tournament, the winning golfer takes a stand. Karrie Webb decided to concentrate on her game and on nobody else. She stood strong in spite of tough competition and new challengers. That’s why she won the U.S. Women’s Open.

In life, the time comes when we need to stand up for God and against the devil. Choosing not to gossip, refusing to curse or listen to profanity, and avoiding questionable movies and TV shows takes commitment and power. But with God’s strength, we can do it.

GOAL! Do you remember a time when you didn’t take a stand for God? Think about a day you chose to follow the crowd instead of God. Ask the Lord to help you be strong against the devil.