Recap: 2026 ANWA First Round at Champions Retreat
As the sun dipped behind the towering pines at Champions Retreat, the first round of the 2026 Augusta National Women’s Amateur (ANWA) came to a close with a thrilling leaderboard splash. Maria Jose Marin and Soomin Oh took the lead, both carding impressive 5-under 67s. The competitive field showcased exceptional talent, setting the stage for a dramatic chase towards Saturday’s final round.
How the Round Unfolded
The day began under crisp, sunny skies with a light breeze, ideal for scoring and offering the players favorable conditions. As the morning sessions unfolded, players quickly seized the opportunities provided by the pristine greens and soft fairways. The momentum shifted dramatically at the turn, where Marin, a rising star from Colombia, made her move with a four-birdie spree on holes 7 to 11, showcasing her prowess on the course.
Marin’s impressive stretch laid the groundwork for a competitive round, but the suspense didn’t end there. Soomin Oh, hailing from South Korea, also found her rhythm, firing off five birdies without a single dropped shot. The tight competition was palpable, with both players exchanging the lead multiple times throughout the day.
A notable moment occurred at the difficult par-3 13th hole, where several competitors faltered. Oh managed to sink a long putt for birdie, propelling her into a tie for the lead. Confidence surged as both players finished strong, signaling they could be formidable contenders in ensuing rounds.
Standout Performances
While Marin and Oh shared the spotlight at the top, other competitors made noise as well. Canadian golf star, Brooke Henderson, demonstrated her skill with a solid 4-under 68, highlighted by an eagle on the 15th hole. Henderson consistently performed under pressure, maneuvering around tricky pin placements with skill and precision.
Meanwhile, the seasoned veteran and former ANWA champion, Anna Davis, began her day in slower fashion but recovered with a strong back nine, finishing at 2-under 70. She will need to gain momentum early for her bid to reclaim the title.
Several up-and-coming talents also caught the eye of galleries, including American Amari Avery, who dazzled the crowd with a well-rounded performance, finishing the round at even par after a solid front nine.
Course and Conditions
The setup at Champions Retreat presented challenges that tested even the most seasoned players. The greens, while receptive, proved to be tricky with subtle breaks often leading to missed chances. Furthermore, a slight afternoon breeze added complexity to already demanding approach shots, compelling players to strategize their clubs meticulously.
The course, renowned for its natural beauty and tactical layout, revealed ever-changing conditions throughout the round. While the morning wave benefited from calmer winds, those on the course during the afternoon encountered more dynamic elements, making shot-making critical as the day wore on.
Standings Context
The cut line for the tournament is set after 36 holes, and players will be eager to secure their spots for the final round. As it stands, only the top 30 players, along with those tied at the cut line, will advance. With stakes at an all-time high, early performances in Round 2 will be crucial for many players looking to stay in contention.
From a broader perspective, this tournament is vital for the FedEx Cup standings, with points rewarded to top players. Successful placements here can significantly affect players’ standings and influence their paths in the following events.
What to Watch Next
Looking ahead, the anticipation builds for the second round of the ANWA, scheduled to commence early tomorrow morning. The leaderboard remains extremely tight, and pairing dynamics could have a substantial impact on the outcome. Marin and Oh will likely be paired together again, with the pressure of leading the charge.
Notable tee times to watch include Henderson, who will be joined by rising star Avery, both eager to make their case for Sunday’s finale. All eyes will be on the top contenders—catapulted by the excitement of competitive play, expect fireworks as this enthralling tournament progresses.
As the golf community rallies around these talented players, the conversation heats up in anticipation. Which player do you think has the best chance of making a comeback in the next round? Join in the discussion below!
