LANCASTER, Pa. — Nikki Long is participating in the U.S. Women’s Open this week at Lancaster (Pa.) Country Club. After practice rounds on Tuesday and Wednesday, the San Antonio native will open play at 6:07 a.m. (CT) on Thursday.
Long, a sophomore-to-be for the Roadrunners, is writing a daily journal about her experience as the first player to compete in the event in the program’s 10-year history.
Below is her third entry.
Wednesday, July 8
Today was the third day of my U.S. Open experience, the day of the second practice round.
This morning began with a very early start. I was at the course and 6 a.m. and started my pre-round routine.
On the range, I was able to get a good session in and really groove my ball striking consistency. The ground in Pennsylvania is much softer than South Texas (as you can imagine) and it takes some getting used to.
I rounded out my warm-up with some short game practice and several short range putts. Before I knew it, it was 7 a.m. and time to make my way to the 10th tee.
My playing partners today both were professionals. Jaye Green (21 years old, playing her second year on the LPGA and from Florida) and Georgia Hall (19 years old, from Southern England).
Because Georgia knew two of my Euro teammates, Brogan (Townend) and Becky (McGeehan), I immediately felt very comfortable with my pairing. Both girls were very fun to play with.
During today's round, I felt noticeably more comfortable with the people watching me and executing pressure-packed shots. I am very thankful that we have two practice rounds because I feel much more at ease after today.
My caddie and I have formulated a good plan for tomorrow. Hit the fairways at all costs and go for the middle of the greens or just below the hole. Sounds easy, right? The greens are rolling at 11.5 and I suspect they will speed up as the week progresses.
Because I am decked out in UTSA gear, people are constantly asking questions about my university. My favorite question to answer is when people ask about the mascot on my hat. I flash them a big smile and say, "It's a Roadrunner and I'm from UTSA!"
Lots of kids from the First Tee Program were out here today and it was neat getting to talk to them and hand out signed golf balls. I feel beyond blessed by all of the spectators and volunteers who are investing their time into this incredible event. They have made this experience even more special.
Tomorrow is the first round of the tournament. My mindset is to go out and have the time of my life, free of fear and timidity, and full of competitive fight and a sound mind.