July 8, 2011
LEXINGTON, Ky. – Kentucky junior women’s golfer Megan Moir carded a first-round score of even par at the Marion Miley Invitational on Thursday, and was crowned the tournament champion on Friday after heavy rains in the Lexington area canceled the second and final round of the tournament.
The Marion Miley Invitational, considered one of the most prestigious amateur women’s golf tournaments in the state of Kentucky, is a two-round event held at the Lexington Country Club. Moir’s first round score of 72 was three strokes better than second place, held by Moir’s sister Mackenzie, and Christine Cash.
“This is about my fourth or fifth year in the tournament and it was really special because my mom, my two sisters and I were all in there and my dad was caddying so it was a family affair, definitely,” said Moir, who was named to the 2011 Southeastern Conference Community Service Team. “The weather was great (on Thursday) and I love this course.”
Moir, a junior from Louisville, Ky., battled injuries during her sophomore season and had surgery on her foot in April. On Thursday, Moir said she struck the ball well throughout the round and it felt great to get back out on the course.
“This was my first tournament back since the surgery and I just played really well so it just felt good to come back after sitting out,” Moir said. “I’ve had to take it really easy in practicing so this feels good.”
The UK women’s golf team, which earned a bid to the East regional of the 2011 NCAA Division I Women’s Golf Championships, will begin preparations for the 2011-12 season in just over a month. Moir said the tournament victory gives her confidence and some momentum as she prepares for the upcoming season.
Moir is the most recent member of what has become a very favorable tournament for Kentucky women’s golfers. Senior Ashlee Rose and junior Betsie Johnson, each won the Marion Miley Invitational in 2008 and 2009, respectively. Moir finished in second behind Rose in 2008.
“I felt like it was my turn,” Moir said with a laugh.
Go to UKathletics.com for all Kentucky women’s golf news and updates.
