Lottie Woad Impresses in ANWA First Round

England's Lottie Woad showcased her championship pedigree with a stellar opening round at the Augusta National Women's Amateur (ANWA), carding an eight-birdie 65 (-7) to sit just two strokes behind record-setting leader Megha Ganne.

Key Highlights:

• The 21-year-old defending champion demonstrated remarkable consistency, capitalizing on scoring opportunities at Champions Retreat Golf Club.
• Woad's performance builds on her breakout 2024 season that saw her:
  • Win the 2024 ANWA title
  • Make major championship debuts
  • Finish as top Briton at the Women's Open
  • Help secure Curtis Cup victory
  • Maintain world No. 1 amateur ranking

Record-Breaking Round from Ganne

American Megha Ganne stole headlines with a historic 63 (-9), setting a new ANWA scoring record at Champions Retreat. The Stanford standout surpassed the previous tournament low of 65 (-7) set by Rose Zhang in 2023.

Tournament Format:

1. First two rounds at Champions Retreat (par 72)
2. Cut to top 30 after 36 holes
3. Final round at Augusta National Golf Club

Other Notables:

• Scotland's Hannah Darling opened with 75 (+3) (T55)
• England's Patience Rhodes posted 76 (+4) (T61)

The field will battle for position in Friday's second round, with all eyes on whether Woad can close the gap on Ganne and position herself for a potential back-to-back ANWA triumph.