Henderson and Lee tie at CPKC Women’s Open after rounds of 65

Brooke Henderson and Minjee Lee lead the CPKC Women’s Open

Canadian star Brooke Henderson, with a spectacular eagle from a bunker on the 17th hole, joins Minjee Lee at the top of the CPKC Women’s Open. Henderson, the 2018 champion in Saskatchewan, had a notable day with an eagle, six birdies, and two bogeys in windy and cloudy conditions at the Mississaugua Golf and Country Club. The Canadian golfer achieved her last victory on the LPGA Tour in January 2023.

It’s always been a very special week. I feel like I’ve learned a lot every year I play here. I was trying to remember some moments where I’ve had a lot of success, what I did and the mindset I had.

Brooke Henderson

Minjee Lee also signed a card of 65 strokes, tying Henderson at 11 under par (202 total strokes). The Australian player stood out with a chip-in for birdie on the 8th hole and a long putt for eagle on the 12th hole. In addition, she achieved another eagle on the 17th hole and a chip-in to save par on the 18th.

I would say those two eagles are my highlights and obviously the chip-in on the last hole. There are no photos on the scorecard.

Minjee Lee

Lee, who won the KPMG Women’s PGA Championship in June, is seeking her third major title and her eleventh victory on the LPGA Tour. She is currently ranked number 4 in the world.

I think it will be very exciting to be in the final group with Brooke.

Minjee Lee

Henderson, originally from Smith Falls, Ontario, overcame a slow start on Thursday. After playing the first 11 holes at 3 over par, she recovered to finish with a 71, and then had a round of 66 on Friday.

It’s very exciting to play here this week. The crowd has been phenomenal. I’m very happy to play at home and hope to have another good day.

Brooke Henderson

Akie Iwai, winner of the Portland Classic last week, who led by three strokes at the start of the weekend, had three consecutive bogeys on the first hole, finishing with 72 strokes and tying for third place with world number one Jeeno Thitikul, with 8 under par. Thitikul signed a card of 69 strokes in her first appearance after rising to number 1 in the world. Aphrodite Deng, the 15-year-old Canadian amateur who tied for second place after a first round of 66 strokes, was at 6 under par after a round of 68.

It has been incredible with all the people who support me.

Aphrodite Deng

Nelly Korda is in 24th place, with 3 under par, after a round of 72.