For the first time since 1971, the LPGA Tour will have two African American players on Tour at the same time. Sadena Parks and Cheyenne Woods will become only the fifth and sixth African Americans in LPGA history. The dynamic and lovely duo both teed it up on Wednesday, January 28 to start the season. The last African American player to play on the LPGA Tour was Shasta Averyhardt in 2011.
Parks earned Tour status via a fourth place finish on the Symetra Tour – Road to the LPGA money list in a season that included two wins. Woods earned her card via a spectacular comeback at the LPGA Qualifying School. After opening with a 4-under 68, Woods shot an uncharacteristic 7-over 79 in the second round and fell into a tie for 80th. But she responded with three straight rounds under par – 67, 71, and 70 – to finish in a tie for 11th and earn her Tour card.
Pictured L-R, Cheyenne Woods, Sadena Parks
African Americans who have played on the LPGA Tour:
Cheyenne Woods (2015)
Sadena Parks (2015)
Shasta Averyhardt (2011)
LaRee Sugg (1995-1997; 2000-2001)
Renee Powell (1967-1980)
Althea Gibson (1964-1971)
*Andia Winslow played as a sponsor exemption in the 2006 Ginn Clubs & Resorts Open
