| One
of the most dominant forces in the women's game, Nancy Lopez
became a household name as one of the most successful women
golfers of the modern era. Only 12 years old when she won the
New Mexico Women's Amateur, Lopez was twice winner of the USGA
Junior Girls Championship (1972, 1974) and finished second in
her first major at the US Women's Open in 1975, which she entered
as an amateur. Lopez was subsequently selected for the US Curtis
Cup and World Amateur Teams in 1976, and was a college All-American
at Tulsa University.
After
turning pro in 1978, Lopez took the LPGA by storm, winning
nine tournaments in her rookie season, including five in a
row. For her efforts Lopez was named Rolex Rookie of the Year,
Rolex Player of the Year, and was awarded the Vare Trophy.
In 1979 Lopez repeated as Rolex Player of the Year, and Vare
Trophy winner, winning a total of eight tournaments. Lopez
enjoyed consistent success throughout the early eighties,
and was once again named Rolex Player of the Year and Vare
Trophy winner in 1985. In 1987 Lopez earned her 35th career
victory at the Sarasota Classic, and was inducted into the
LPGA Hall of Fame on July 20, becoming the Hall's 11th inductee.
In addition to her three Vare Trophies, Lopez was also named
recipient of the USGA's Bobby Jones Award.
Major Victories: LPGA Championship
1978, 1985, 1989
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Golf
