When?
In just seven months, the world’s best golfers will make their way to Rio for the 2016 Summer Olympics for the first playing of golf in the games since 1904. The men will compete the second week of August with the women competing the following week, August 17 – 20, 2016
Where?
The Olympic golf course was built specifically for the 2016 games in Barra da Tijuca in Brazil. The course was designed by Gil Hanse Golf Course Design, who was also responsible for the restoration and renovations of several famous courses including The Country Club, Winged Foot Golf Club and the Blue Monster at Trump National Golf Club.
The course will play to a par 71 at 6,500 yards for the women.
Who Qualifies?
The top-60 ranked players according to the Rolex Rankings qualify for the Olympic games. Countries with players ranked within the top-15 in the world are limited to four players representing their country. Countries with players ranked outside the top-15 will have two players eligible to compete.
Who Is In?
There are currently 60 women from 38 different countries that have qualified to compete this summer. Korea has the most athletes currently at four, including Inbee Park, So Yeon Ryu, Sei Young Kim and Amy Yang. The United States has three athletes currently ranking in the top-15, including Stacy Lewis, Lexi Thompson and Cristie Kerr.
Click here for the current rankings.
What’s the Format?
Much like a typical LPGA event, the games will consist of 72 holes of stroke play, with players competing over the course of four days. The player with the lowest aggregate score at the completion of play will be awarded the gold medal. Playoffs will determine the winners in the event of a tie for first, second or third.