What you need to know about Augusta National Women’s Amateur

EVANS, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) - Big names and faces have made it here for the Augusta National Women’s Amateur.

Anna Davis won last year, becoming the tournament’s youngest champion in its three-year history.

Practice rounds were underway Tuesday at Champions Retreat in Columbia County.

Meanwhile, we’re getting a first look at tee times when shots start to count Wednesday:

At the top of the rankings are Rose Zhang, Ingrid Lindblad and Saki Baba.

“I’m really grateful for another opportunity to try and compete for that trophy,” Zhang said.

Lindblad is excited.

“I know what it takes, like how to play on this course,” she said.

Anna Davis says she’s in the zone. Earlier, she was putting more pressure on herself, but she said she was much calmer as the clock ticked down to Round 1.

“Good golf, good people, just enjoy it,” she said.

All eyes will be on Davis, who made waves last year not just for her play but also for her bucket hat, which turned the fashion statement into a sensation. Davis tees off just after 9:20 a.m. Wednesday.

An international field of 72 women will compete in the 54-hole championship from Wednesday through Saturday.

PHOTO GALLERY:

The first two rounds will be played at Champions Retreat Golf Club on Wednesday and Thursday.

All players, including those who don’t make the cut, will play a practice round at Augusta National on Friday.

The leading 30 players and ties from Wednesday’s and Thursday’s play will advance to the final round at Augusta National Golf Club on Saturday.

MORE FROM NEWS 12:

• Local businesses prepare to bloom during golf week
• Homeowners prepare to rent their space during Masters week
• Emergency managers ready for big crowds during golf week
• Augusta Regional Airport is ready for Masters visitors

Copyright 2023 WRDW/WAGT. All rights reserved.