July 24, 2001

The University of Kentucky doubles team of Carolina Mayorga and Lauren Rookledge used a commanding run to claim the 2001 National Amateur Hardcourt Doubles Championship in Columbus, Ohio, last weekend.

The duo defeated Ohio State’s Monica Rincon and Claudia Castro in the championship match, 8-2. The UK team didn’t lose a single game leading up to the championship match, winning all three preceding matches 8-0.

Mayorga, who will be a senior in the fall, just finished up a stellar year in doubles with partner Sarah Witten. The two were named All-Americas after advancing to the quarterfinals of the NCAA tournament.

Rookledge, also a senior, posted a 26-6 record in doubles play last spring with partner Brooke Skeen, who graduated in May.

“This is a really great achievement for these athletes,” Coach Mark Guilbeau said. “To win a USTA Gold Ball is an honor and is something that reflects highly on their hard work.”