May 22, 2006

The 2006 NAIA Women's Golf National Championships kicked off on Monday with the official practice rounds and the Long Drive Contest at the Blackthorn Golf Club in South Bend, Indiana.

The teams played their practice rounds in cool and breezy conditions as the competitors had one last chance to familiarize themselves with the course layout. The day was highlighted by an ace on the 174 yard 13th hole by Jennifer Mann of Oklahoma Baptist.

In the Long Drive competition, 2005 individual medalist Emily Albrektson of Oklahoma City finished on top by besting Nicole Stafford of Oklahoma Baptist, Laurel Hanzel of Robert Morris, Mandy Beck of William Woods and Jennifer Lotz of Missouri Baptist.

The tournament proper opens on Tuesday morning with tee times beginning at 8:00 a.m.