Lady'Back linksters return to the course Friday at the Mercedes-Benz Collegiate Classic

FAYETTEVILLE – The third-ranked University of Arkansas women’s golf team returns to the links at the Ninth Annual Mercedes-Benz Collegiate Classic hosted by Tennessee this weekend. Arkansas is coming off a team win at the Tyson/Embassy Suites Invitational at Pinnacle Country Club in Rogers, Ark., earlier this week and face the tough challenge of a quick turn-around and a top-notch field this weekend. “We knew the turn-around would be tight,” said Arkansas head coach Kelley Hester. “But we’ve always played well at this event and we’re excited to get out there and face some of the top teams in the country.” Arkansas traveled six athletes to the event, one of whom will compete as an individual. Sophomore Ashley Medders leads the charge after capturing medalist honors Tuesday at the Tyson/Embassy Suites Invitational. She is joined by sophomore Stacy Lewis and senior Courtney Mahon who tied for second earlier this week. Also making the trip is seniors Amanda McCurdy, Sarah Trew and Lindsey Hinshaw. The file d Arkansas faces is the best thus far in the young season. In addition to the Lady’Backs, Arkansas faces Southeastern Conference rival and host No. 19 Tennessee, as well as No. 4 Georgia and No. 31 Alabama in the 14-team field. Also scheduled to compete is No. 6 Purdue, No. 15 Ohio State, No. 18 Southern Methodist, No. 20 Tulane, No. 23 Michigan State, No. 28 Kent State, No. 36 North Carolina, No. 43 Penn State, No. 49 Northwestern and the Swedish National Team. The three-day event begins Friday at the Cherokee Country Club for the second-consecutive year. All results may be followed live at www.golfstat.com.