SARASOTA, Fla., April 18, 2016 - Rino Sasaki of the IMG Academy in Bradenton made birdies on four of her final five holes to post a 72 to qualify for the 2016 Guardian Retirement Championship. Sasaki’s score was the lowest of the 14 amateurs in the local qualifier on Monday at Sara Bay Country Club.
Sasaki, 17, came to IMG Academy from Mexico two years ago. She was born in Japan.
“I actually began a little slow today, I was a couple over early,” explained Sasaki. “I wasn’t really on it and then I talked with my caddie and just settled down and brought it back together. I made four birdies in a row on the back nine and that was the key.”
Sasaki birdied holes 14 through 17 before a par to close on the 18th. She will play in her first professional tournament this week.
“I’m very nervous, but I’m really looking forward to playing in the event,” said Sasaki. “I just want to play well, have fun and learn from better players.”
Sasaki will join the field of 144 that begins play on Friday, April 22. Final-round play is scheduled for Sunday, April 24.
Tickets to the Guardian Retirement Championship at Sara Bay are $10 per day. For more information, visit http://www.guardianretirementchampionship.com.
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