Golf Writer Records 12 on Hole at U.S. Women’s Mid-Amateur
A golf writer competing in the U.S. Women’s Mid-Amateur tournament recorded a 12 on the 18th hole at Monterey Peninsula Country Club in California yesterday, highlighting the intense pressure and challenges of competitive golf.
The player, Gabby Herzig, a former Division III golfer and writer for The Athletic, faced a difficult lie in the rough and ultimately took an unplayable drop, leading to a series of challenging shots and a septuple bogey. Herzig recounted the experience, noting her inability to feel her arms after the initial drop and subsequent struggles from a greenside bunker. Despite the high score, she managed to complete the tournament, finishing with rounds of 88 and 79.
Herzig qualified for the prestigious tournament – where the winner earns an invitation to the U.S. Women’s Open – after shooting an even-par 72 in a qualifying event in New Jersey. The U.S. Women’s Mid-Amateur consists of a 132-player field, with the top 64 advancing to a match-play bracket. The experience underscored the mental fortitude required to compete at a high level, a topic Herzig has previously covered in her writing about sports psychology and performance.
While Herzig did not advance to the match-play portion of the tournament, she expressed a desire to compete again next year, acknowledging the valuable lessons learned. The USGA provides detailed information about championships and amateur golf, emphasizing the dedication and skill required to participate. Officials stated that the tournament showcased the talent and resilience of female amateur golfers across the country.
