Hios, Francella Set the Pace at Inaugural New Jersey Women’s Open
WEST ORANGE, N.J. – The first round of the New Jersey Women’s Open Championship is complete at Montclair Golf Club and two professionals in Alexis Hios and Meaghan Francella sit atop the leaderboard, carding a 1-over par 72 on a mild and windy June day.
Francella, who is coming off an appearance at the LPGA ShopRite Classic in Galloway birdied her final hole to enter the clubhouse as co-leader.
“Having the experience of playing that (ShopRite Classic) a couple weeks ago heading into this helped big time just because I was more comfortable in tournament setting,” said Francella. “The first nine in the ShopRite I was just a little nervous but those weren't there today, which was good.”
Her veteran experience has helped lead her to this position.
“I’ve played a lot of British Opens and I know how to flight my golf ball and it was pretty windy today, so I knew it was going to be tough out there,” said Francella. “I just tried to keep good tempo and that was really all I thought about.”
For Hios, an assistant golf professional at Woodway Country Club in New York, her round was highlighted by solid putting.
“I was putting pretty well but I definitely missed quite a few out there,” Hios recalled.
Her first time seeing the course, Hios’ game fit the course set up well.
“I actually haven't even seen the course. This is my first time seeing it, so not knowing what to expect was kind of helpful,” said Hios.
Right behind Hios and Francella, amateur Angelina Kim turned in a 2-over par 73 on the 5,825 yard track. Kim, 16, carded two birdies on her round.
"My irons were pretty solid today,” said Kim. “My driver could have been better, but it's ok because my irons made-up for it.”
The opening round was quite the test for the field of 55 amateur and professionals. The final round of the championship will begin at 8 a.m. off No. 1 (Montclair's 3rd Nine) and 10 (Montclair's 2nd Nine).
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