VALLEJO, Calif. ? University of Nevada golfer Melanie De Leon earned a trip to the 2008 U.S. Amateur Public Links Championships by winning the sectional qualifier held Thursday, May 22 at the Hiddenbrooke Golf Club in Vallejo, Calif.
A three-time second-team All-Western Athletic Conference selection, De Leon shot a 75 on Thursday and turned in a two-stroke victory in the sectional qualifier in Vallejo. With Thursday’s victory, the Saugus, Calif., native qualified for the U.S. Women’s Amateur Public Links Championship, set for June 16-21 at the Erin Hills Golf Course in Erin, Wis.
“The wind was blowing at 30 miles per hour, but I just went out and played,” De Leon said. “I putted very well. My short game was really good. It wasn’t my usual game because I didn’t hit too many fairways, but it was my putting and chipping. I’m really excited. I can’t wait.”
De Leon led the Wolf Pack with six top 10 finishes and a 75.46 stroke average this season and returns for her senior year in 2008-09.
“I’m really excited for Melanie to start off her summer this way and have a chance to compete in this prestigious national event and play against the best competition in the country,” Nevada women’s golf coach Adam Pohll said. “Winning the qualifier is exactly what Melanie needed for her confidence. It will allow her to win more and more in the future.”