Get ready to witness history in the making! Four collegiate golfers from Oregon and Oregon State are gearing up to compete at the prestigious Augusta National Women’s Amateur, one of the most elite amateur tournaments in the country. But here’s where it gets even more exciting: among them is Kiara Romero, the world’s No. 1 women’s amateur golfer and a trailblazer in Oregon’s golf history. Joining her are teammates Karen Tsuru and Prim Prachnakorn, along with Oregon State’s Kyra Ly, each bringing their unique talent to the green.
This year’s tournament, set for April 1-4 in Augusta, Georgia, is no ordinary event. It features the Top 20 players in the World Amateur Golf rankings and a staggering 48 of the Top 50, making it a true showcase of global golfing prowess. And this is the part most people miss: Romero isn’t just another competitor—she’s a two-time, first-team All-American, a distinction no other Oregon woman has achieved. Last year, she tied for seventh at Augusta, and now she’s back with her sights set even higher.
But let’s not overlook the others. Prachnakorn and Tsuru, ranked No. 30 and No. 40 globally, respectively, are forces to be reckoned with. Meanwhile, Ly represents Oregon State’s rising talent, adding another layer of intrigue to this Pacific Northwest showdown.
Here’s the catch: Is this tournament a stepping stone to professional glory, or is it the pinnacle for these collegiate athletes? The debate is real, and opinions are divided. While some argue that Augusta National is a launchpad for future pros, others believe it’s a once-in-a-lifetime achievement for amateurs. What do you think? Let’s spark a conversation in the comments!
For those eager to watch, the action kicks off with live coverage on the Golf Channel from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. ET on April 1 and 2. After a practice round on April 3, NBC Sports takes over, broadcasting the final round from 12 to 3 p.m. ET on April 4. Mark your calendars—this is one event you won’t want to miss.
And while we’re on the topic of Oregon sports, did you know the younger brother of a Ducks quarterback is joining the team? Or that the Oregon Ducks women’s basketball team is facing off against Illinois tonight? It’s a big season for the Ducks, but as Coach Dana Altman recently noted, even in a ‘big down,’ the future looks bright. Stay tuned for more updates from Ryan Clarke, who brings you the latest from The Oregonian/OregonLive, with a lifelong connection to the state and a passion for storytelling that’s earned him four awards. What’s your take on this year’s Augusta National lineup? Share your thoughts below—we’re all ears!
