Lewis prepares on the eve of the U.S. Women's Open

FAYETTEVILLE — University of Arkansas junior Stacy Lewis opens first round play at the 2007 U.S. Women’s Open in Southern Pines, N.C., Thursday. Lewis becomes the second Lady Razorback to earn an exemption to the U.S. Women’s Open joining former Lady Razorback Amanda McCurdy who qualified in 2005. "I feel like after the Kraft, I know what I can do," said Lewis. "I know that I can play with anyone out here." Lewis has had a whirlwind schedule in recent months. She tied for fifth place at the LPGA-hosted Kraft Nabisco Championship playing with the leader on the final day. She returned to the collegiate ranks with a record-setting performance at the Susie Maxwell Berning Classic and parleyed that into qualifying for nationals with a third-place finish at the NCAA Regional Championship. Lewis went on to win the 2007 NCAA Championship blistering the golf course with a 66 in the final round. Her collegiate season closed only to find Lewis continue her winning streak bringing home the hardware at the 2007 Women’s Southern Amateur. She received an exemption to the local qualifying event but had to play her way into the Open field at a sectional qualifier. Lewis returned to her home state playing near her hometown at the Houston, Texas, event where she tied for the win with rounds of 71-74 for a 145. This year marks the 62nd consecutive U.S. Women’s Open Championship with Pine Needles Lodge and Golf Club serving as the host for the third time. Pine Needles is setting up to play 6,644 yards and is a par 71. This year’s field includes 156 players for the first two rounds Thursday and Friday. After 36 holes, the field is cut to the 60 lowest scorers, any ties to 60th and all players within 10 strokes of the leader. This year’s Open has a purse of $3.1 million with the winner receiving $560.000. It is the largest total purse in women’s golf. Laura Davies, Pat Hurst, Juli Inkster, Birdie Kim, Meg Mallon, Se Ri Pak, Grace Park, Morgan Pressel, Annika Sorenstam, Karrie Webb and Michelle Wie are just a few of the professional players scheduled to play in this year’s Open. This year’s television schedule includes coverage on both ESPN and NBC with the first and second rounds airing from3:00-7:00 p.m. on ESPN. The final two rounds will be carried by NBC from 4:00-7:00 p.m. For more information about Stacy Lewis or Lady Razorback golf, please log on to LADYBACKS.COM.