Team golf has brought out the best in many players at the Dow Championship over the past four years. Winning teams have provided a significant career boost for several competitors.
One notable success story is Cydney Clanton, who was ranked 269th in the world when she partnered with Jasmine Suwannapura to win the event in 2019. Clanton, previously playing on the Epson Tour, became an LPGA winner after their six-stroke victory.
In the 2023 edition, Elizabeth Szokol secured her first LPGA title at the age of 29 with the help of her good friend Cheyenne Knight.
Sandra Gal and Maude-Aimee Leblanc, old friends who teamed up for the event, shot an opening 67 in the alternate-shot format. Gal, overcoming health challenges, reached out to Leblanc to form their team dubbed “The Shorties,” despite both players being tall.
Gal, ranked 813th in the world, and Leblanc, ranked 386th, complemented each other well on the course, with Gal highlighting their trust and enjoyment playing together.
LPGA members on the winning team will earn a two-year winner’s exemption, CME points, and prize money towards the LPGA Official Money List and CME Globe Standings. However, other accolades like Rolex Player of the Year and U.S. Solheim Cup points won’t be allocated.
Team FinAsia, consisting of Matilda Castren and Tan, also seek a performance boost. Their strong friendship has translated into success on the course.
Despite facing challenges, Castren and Tan, ranked 369th and 905th respectively, opened with a solid 2-under 68.
As the tournament progresses, the format will switch to four-ball for the second and final rounds and return to foursomes for the third round.
Following 36 holes, the field will be cut to the low 33 teams and ties, vying for a total purse of $3 million with the winning team receiving $732,165.
Maude-Aimee Leblanc of Canada and Sandra Gal of Germany walk the eighth fairway during the first round of the Dow Championship at Midland Country Club on June 27, 2024, in Midland, Michigan. (Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images)
