LPGA Q Series: Keeping the dream alive

The first half of the LPGA Q Series concluded on Sunday in Mobile, Ala. and five newly minted professionals still in the field have advanced to Highland Oaks Golf Course in Dothan for the final 72 holes of qualifying next weekend.

Valery Plata (Michigan State) and Natthakritta Vongtaveela are currently tied for 11th at 11-under 275 while Nataliya Guseva (Miami) and Heather Lin (Oregon) are tied for 33rd at 8-under 278. Ashley Lau (Michigan) will also play in Dothan next weekend after finishing on the cutline at 2-under 284. Minji Kang (Truett McConnell) did not advance after finishing at 3-over 289, but will receive status on the Epson Tour next year.

After opening with a 1-over 73 on Thursday, Plata carded rounds of 66-67-69 to advance to Dothan next weekend.

“You know, I'm just trying to hit the shot that's right in front of me," said the 2021 Women's Amateur Latin America champion and Big Ten Player of the Year. "I’m not really thinking about the bogey-free or next week or anything. I'm just hitting the shot in front of me, making good swings, and good decisions.”

Lauren Hartlage, who played collegiately at Louisville, has sole possession of first place at 14-under following rounds of 66-69-69-68.

A total of 75 players made the cut which came at 2-under par. The top-45 and ties with the best cumulative scores over two weeks of competition will receive LPGA Tour status for 2023 while those from 21-45 will earn category 15 status and category C Epson Tour status. Those who finish outside the top 45 but compete in all rounds of the tournament will receive Epson Tour status for 2023.