Commentary: Time is
Right for Women's Golf in Tucson

By Ryan Finley,
Contributor

Judging by the results of the University of Arizona's women's golf team and the success of the Welch's/Circle K Championship, women's golf appears ready to earn its place among Tucson's top sporting events.

Many different activities seem to romance the residents of Tucson for a certain amount of time each year.

From the traditional to the weird, Tucsonans seem to fall in love with a different event almost every weekend.

Currently, Tucson is the spring training home to Major League Baseball's Colorado Rockies, Arizona Diamondbacks, and Chicago White Sox. During late February, local public schools take a day off to celebrate what is known as "Rodeo Day". An entire day off to celebrate Copenhagen and cowboys---fun.

• Preview: Welch's/Circle K Championship • TGM Quick Look: All About Tucson • GolfArizona.com coverage of the pro tours • Past articles by Ryan Finley

But there is one sport in town which has no season: golf. Tucson is a haven for the sport of golfing and for golfers around the world.

Despite the fact that golfers flock to "the Old Pueblo" in droves each year, the game as a spectator sport has yet to catch on in the city. The Touchstone Energy Tucson Open, despite its rich heritage and unique trophy, is hardly in the upper echelon of the nation's tournaments.

The University of Arizona, which reflects the city culturally, academically, and, yes, athletically, boasts a strong men's golf program, currently ranked 15th in the nation.

But the men's team, as strong as they are, seems to play second fiddle to the dominant Lady Wildcat golfers.

The UA women are currently ranked first in the Pacific 10 Conference, and first in the nation. UA senior Jenna Daniels is ranked second in the nation in individually.

In professional golf, the Welch's/Circle K Championship brings out the nation's top female golfers each season. Last year's tournament was won by Juli Inkster, who was promptly inducted into the LPGA Hall of Fame.

Coincidence? Probably, but the tournament showcases the talent of the greater sex for, at the very least, a few days each year.

The sport of women's golf is ready to embrace Tucson, entering cult status similar to that of the Tucson Rodeo and Arizona Icecats Hockey.

Only one question remains: is the city of Tucson ready to embrace women's golf?