Defending champion Michaels finishes 26th at Capital Hills
Defending champion, Sydnee Michaels who failed to repeat her last-year performance at the Credit Union Challenge 2012, looked stunned at Capital Hills Albany on Sunday, as if unsure of how to react.
Michaels was brimming with confidence when she kicked off the Credit Union Champion last Friday, as she had vowed to defend her title. However, the American star could not remain in contention and finished
tied for the 26th position on the leaderboard.
Although she got off a decent start as she posted a 69 in the opening round, she could not maintain the momentum and lost many chances.
Commentators said that Michaels could have made the most of the vast experience she has gained over the years on the Symetra Tour, but her plan simply backfired.
American Jaclyn Sweeney stole the show at Capital Hills, as she registered an overall 203 to clinch her first Symetra Tour victory. Sweeney’s game was nothing short of amazing, as she launched impressive shots,
giving a tough time to her rivals.
Commentators said that the American fans had pinned their hopes on Michaels, as they thought she knew how to tackle contenders in the much-hyped tournament. They said that the past winner did not look complacent
at all, and was seen slugging it out throughout the three rounds.
Michaels, who did not participate in the Evian Masters 2012, an LPGA (Ladies Professional Golf Association) tournament, held in France, decided to give Credit Union Challenge a try, as she thought she would
bring her old memories.
Analysts said that Michaels might have messed up and missed a chance to become the winner at Credit Union Challenge once again, but letting another contender take the attention and grab an LPGA Tour card is
good for the sport and the Tour as well.
The American star had spoken to the media before the start of the Credit Union Challenge 2012, expressing her desire to win the tournament. She said that she was pretty happy after winning her LPGA Tour card,
as she can hone her skills by playing among top-ranked players.
Sweeney expressed her joy at the end of the tournament on Sunday, saying she is extremely thrilled after beating strong contenders at Capital Hills.
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