Everyone knew she was on her way, but there was still a curiosity surrounding Brooke Henderson on the Epson Tour. She was already ranked No. 51 in the world, but hadn’t played much on the Epson Tour. She shows up mid-week at the Four Winds Invitational and played in the pro-am the day she arrived in town. I remember that being her first and maybe only look at the course before the tournament started. Remember, she was still playing on a sponsors exemption at this point because she was wasn’t a member of the Epson Tour or the LPGA.
She carded a 7-under 65 to move into contention on Saturday.
On Sunday, Brooke went into the back nine one shot behind Dottie Ardina, who entered the final round in front. Henderson made back-to-back birdies on holes 11/12 to seize the lead and basically cruised to a three shot victory. I remember following Brooke from the 15th in. Her sister, Brittany, showed up on the 16th hole to follow little sister in. Brooke said in her post-round remarks that she spotted Brittany and that gave her a sense a clam. It was so impressive to watch the precision under pressure that Brooke displayed. Nerves had to be resonating inside, but all business with a stoic face on the outside.
It was a huge turning point for Henderson because now she had everyone’s attention including the Commissioner of the LPGA. I remember snapping all the pictures/videos and ushering Brooke through a scrum interview with the media and then I got a phone call.
“Hey Bret, it’s Mike Whan”
After a few pleasantries, he asked if Brooke was still around and I gave my phone to her. She had the smile that the world has gotten to know so well the entire 3-4 minute conversation. Of course, Commissioner Whan offered her membership on the Epson Tour. It was a big first step for her.
The Brooke Henderson story is now well documented. One month later, she won on the LPGA and now she is at the No. 4 ranked golfer in the world.
It’s pretty neat to think that basically one year after her win in South Bend, she is now one of the top golfers in the world and will represent Canada in the Olympic Games in two months.
Blackthorn Golf Club will be buzzing next week for the 5th annual Four Winds Invitational. Brooke won’t be there, the memory of her win won’t be soon forgotten by the community of South Bend.
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