March 2, 2003

The University of Kentucky women’s golf team will begin the spring portion of its 2002-2003 season with a trip to Houston, Texas, for the “Mo”morial Invitational. Texas A&M will play host to the 19-team tournament at the par-72, 6,128-yard Blackhorse Golf Club. The tournament is named after former Texas A&M women’s golfer Monica Welsh, who was killed in a 1992 auto accident.

The tournament field will complete a 36-hole format Monday beginning at 8 a.m. CST. followed by an 18-hole format Tuesday. SEC-rival Arkansas and traditional rivals Indiana and Louisville are also participating in the two-day event.

Kentucky Coach Stephanie Martin is depending on a solid core of veterans to help the Wildcats navigate through a challenging spring slate, which includes stops in Gainesville, Fla., Honolulu and Athens, Ga. Seniors Kelly Anders and Rachel Lester are expected to provide steady leadership this spring after strong fall performances. Junior Eva Gessner and sophomore Stacy Springer improved their games dramatically in the fall and figure to make a positive impact on the team’s performance the rest of the season.